1969 Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.3 Sedan

6,332cc SOHC V-8 Engine
Mechanical Fuel Injection
300bhp at 4,100rpm
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes

*Single family ownership since new
*Barn-find condition, having been off the road for more than a decade
*Southern California, black-plate car
*Powerful Mercedes-Benz luxury Sedan designed by Paul Bracq


THE MERCEDES-BENZ 300 SEL 6.3

'The greatest sedan in the world,' according to Road & Track, and few would disagree with the authoritative American motoring magazine's assessment of what in its day was the last word in high-speed opulence: the Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.3.

First shown at Frankfurt in 1965, the 'S' Class Mercedes range, designed by Paul Bracq, was outwardly distinguished from preceding models by a new sleeker bodyshell with lower roof and waistline as well as increased glass area. Joining the range for 1968 was the 300 SEL 6.3, created by installing the powerful 6,332cc overhead-camshaft V8 of the leviathan 600 limousine in the long-wheelbase 300 saloon, while other refinements included the 600's air suspension and power-operated brakes. Automatic transmission was standard equipment. According to The Motor: 'The rich smell of expensive cow hide and firm, but shapely seats welcome you aboard. The door shuts with a muffled donk, like that of a railway carriage in an acoustic chamber, and suddenly the outer world is remote and strangely silent.' A superbly appointed luxury conveyance endowed with sports car performance, the 300 SEL 6.3 could attain 60mph in around seven seconds and had a top speed approaching 140mph. It is not at all surprising that the 300 SEL 6.3 was such a favorite with racing drivers of its era. They would have been among the relatively few individuals wealthy enough to afford it as it cost more than Ferrari's fabulous 365 GTB/4 'Daytona' GT car.


THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This 1969 Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.3 Sedan was delivered new to Southern California, and has remained here ever since, while retained by the family of the first owner. The luxurious Mercedes-Benz was used for personal transport up until a few decades ago, at which point it was stored away in a dry Southern California garage. The car has not been driven nor started for many years and will need a full mechanical go-through. Testimony to the high quality of these automobiles, the original interior remains in good condition, and the panel-fit aligns very well. Offered with the original owner's manuals and period black California license plates, this Mercedes-Benz deserves to be brought back on the road.