Eric Minoff
Vice President, Head of Department - US
LOT 207
1980 Mercedes-Benz 380SE Sedan VIN. WDB12603212008773
Estimate: US$25,000 - US$30,000Lot to be sold without reserve
Lot 207
1980 Mercedes-Benz 380SE Sedan
1980 Mercedes-Benz 380SE Sedan
VIN. WDB12603212008773
VIN. WDB12603212008773
3,818cc SOHC V8 Engine
Bosch Jetronic Fuel Injection
156bhp at 4,750 rpm
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes
*An elegant Euro-model W126 saloon
*Attractive Lapis Blue over Beige leather trim
*AMG front spoiler and 3.27 differential
*Color-coded Penta wheels
*48,739 miles shown at cataloguing
*Requires recommissioning
THE MERCEDES-BENZ W126
For many enthusiasts, the W126 represents peak 'Mercedes-Benz-ness.' Introduced at the Frankfurt motor show in the fall of 1979, the W126 had been in development since its predecessor, the W116 entered production in 1972, showing the engineering team's dedication to building the finest sedan in the world. Bruno Sacco's styling team led a masterclass in timeless design, creating a car that was both understated and commanding. Offered in standard, long wheelbase, and coupe form, the W126 could be tailored to suit just about any whim, while a variety of six- and eight-cylinder petrol engines provided ample motivation. For the luxury car buyer with a frugal streak, five- and six-cylinder diesel engines were also offered. In keeping with S-Class tradition, the car oozed quality from every surface. Every function and feature of the W126 was carefully considered and engineered for precise, reliable operation, earning the S-Class countless accolades from the press and public alike throughout its lengthy production run.
THE CAR OFFERED
This home-market 380SE was delivered new in Bielefeld, Northwest Germany. Finished in Lapis Blue over beige leather, it was optioned with central locking, headlamp washers, seat heaters, electric sunroof, and more. Power comes from the 3.8-liter V8 engine, which pairs nicely with the standard wheelbase chassis, and imparts the S-Class with excellent high-speed cruising ability. This car additionally features period AMG styling parts including a front air dam, sill extensions, rear apron, those iconic color-keyed Penta wheels, and reportedly an AMG-installed 3.27 rear differential – although no documents to support that fact have been found. As part of the Barry Taylor Collection, this 380SE has been stored indoors, and shows signs of shelf-wear but is otherwise in good order and the odometer displays just 48,739 miles at the time of cataloguing. While in Bonhams' care, it has not been run, and will require recommissioning due to extended storage. Once refreshed, however, it would be a welcome RADwood® participant and fit right in with any collection of youngtimer Mercedes-Benz automobiles.
Footnotes
Note, due to California emissions laws, this vehicle may only be sold to an out-of-state resident for use outside the state of California or to a licensed automotive dealer.
Saleroom notices
Please note that title is in transit.
Additional information
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