IN THE GARAGE: 1991 Mercedes-Benz 420 SEL

Classic Big Body Benz

THE PINNACLE OF AN AUTOMOTIVE ICON If the 80s were about affluence, power and opulence, there were few cars better suited to express it than the W126 S-Class. It was big. It was luxurious. It was sleek. But it was also smart. Safe. And as the tagline stated at the time, engineered like no other car in the world. In short, it was uncompromising. It was the Flagship of the Mercedes-Benz product line, commanding a sticker price of over $65,000. With an incredible 12-year production run, no S-Class before or since has captured the essence of what it means to be a flagship for longer. It continues to be used in film and popular culture as the iconic Big-body Benz and doesn’t get much argument when referred to as classic. By the end of its production run in 1991, refinements—in styling, safety, appointments and mechanicals—led to the best of the breed. Along with the larger motored 560 SEL, the more svelte 420 SEL still evokes power and panache like few cars throughout history. From the final year of production, the 420 SEL presented here is a perfect example of that. It’s been loved and revered by its owners to remain a statement of elegance and prestige, but with a classic presence that simply cannot be found in today’s luxury cars.

OVERALL CONDITION
Because the cars were so drivable, it stands to reason that many SELs were driven. And driven. And driven. While it’s true that 420 SELs—like any Mercedes-Benz—have legendary durability, finding one with less than 100K miles is somewhat rare. The one listed here is not only a low-mileage example, with less than 87,000 documented miles, but as a testament to its attention to preservation, it retains its original window sticker. Further exemplifying a properly maintained Mercedes-Benz, it’s had a fresh 90,000 mi. scheduled maintenance ahead of schedule. It has all the prerequisites:

The car is presented in a classic, tasty combination of Cabernet Red over Palomino leather. Paint, while not original, is in the original color and is deep with high gloss. The bumper was patched and repainted after a minor collision. Absolutely no other damage was sustained. There are some very minor scratched on the hood and trunk lid, and one small shopping cart ding on the right fender. Otherwise the body is exceptionally straight. Brightwork is a mirror finish with no pitting. Original glass is excellent all the way around. Mechanically, it’s a pleasure to drive. It idles smooth, pulls away strong, no engine vibration. There are no leaks, no smoke and no unusual smells. Shifting is clean and silky. There’s none of the lurching that is typical of more tired cars. Braking is superb, sure and straight. The interior is in near perfect condition. Seats are firm with very little wear on the leather. Dash is perfect with no cracks or warping. The Zebrano wood retains a deep polish and shows only minor crackling on the shifter console. Carpets are supple and fresh. All instruments work, including the clock. The trunk is clean with excellent fit and finish. The headliner is clean with no tears or stains. The car has a full set of books and two sets of keys, along with a complete, unmolested first aid kit. It’s everything a 420 SEL should be.

DRIVING IMPRESSIONS
The 420 SEL—especially one in this condition—is still perfectly at home in just about any environment where style and grace meet suave and sexy. The first thing you’ll notice is the comfort. Seats are firm and supportive yet comfortable enough for all-day touring. Next you’ll grab the large, leather-wrapped steering wheel and turn the key as the 4.2 liter V8 comes to life. Put the car in drive and the car accelerates with steady power, which is considerable by 1991 standards and only a few horses shy of its 560 sibling (with less weight and more efficiency). It’s not neck-snapping by any means but plenty strong with a wide power band for excellent drivability at moderate sppeds. The ride is solid, smooth and quiet. It has a road feel that is lost in modern cars, yet it’s unmistakably a luxury car. In short, it’s a Mercedes-Benz.