The 1976 Mercedes-Benz 450 SEL 6.9 is a classic car that represents the epitome of luxury, power, and engineering. This iconic car is a symbol of the golden age of automotive design and engineering, and it remains one of the most sought-after vehicles of its era.
The 450 SEL 6.9 is the high-performance version of the W116 S-Class saloon. It was based on the long-wheelbase version of W116 chassis introduced in 1972 and equipped with Mercedes-Benz M100 V8 engine and full hydropneumatic suspension system. The 450 SEL 6.9 was presented to the public at the Geneva Auto Show in 1974 as the successor to the original high-performance saloon from Mercedes-Benz, the 300 SEL 6.3 (1968–1972). Like the 300 SEL 6.3, the nomenclate, 6.9, was affixed to the trunk lid as to differentiate itself from 450 SEL. The 450 SEL 6.9 was produced in a very limited number from 1975 to 1981. The total production from 1975 to 1980 was 7.380 units including 1.816 exported to the North American markets. The retail price of 450 SEL 6.9 was DM 81.247. The 450 SEL 6.9 had a premium of DM 25.000 to 30.000 over the 450 SEL.
The 450 SEL 6.9 was powered by a 6.9-liter, V8 engine that produced 286 horsepower and 550 Nm of torque. This engine was mated to a three-speed automatic transmission, which provided smooth and effortless shifts. For several years, the 450 SEL 6.9 was the quickest-accelerating and fastest European saloon, the 450 SEL 6.9 could accelerate from 0 to 100 kmh in just 7.4 seconds and had a top speed of 225 kmh.
The exterior of the 1976 Mercedes-Benz 450 SEL 6.9 was designed with classic Mercedes-Benz styling cues. It had a sleek and aerodynamic profile with a distinctive hood, a chrome grille, and a sloping roofline. The 450 SEL 6.9 also had chrome accents, which gave the car a stylish and elegant look.
The interior of the 450 SEL 6.9 was luxurious and spacious, with high-quality materials and impeccable attention to detail. The dashboard was made of polished wood and featured an array of gauges and controls, including a clock and a tachometer. The seats were upholstered in high-quality leather and had power adjustments, as well as heating and cooling functions.
The 1976 Mercedes-Benz 450 SEL 6.9 was a joy to drive. It had precise handling and excellent feedback, which allowed drivers to feel connected to the road. The suspension was well-tuned and provided a comfortable ride, even on rough roads. The brakes were also powerful and provided excellent stopping power. The 450 SEL 6.9 had the first full hydropneumatic suspension system from Mercedes-Benz and was the world’s first passenger car to be fitted with modern form of ABS.
Today, the 1976 Mercedes-Benz 450 SEL 6.9 is highly sought-after by collectors and enthusiasts. Its classic styling, excellent performance, and legendary handling make it a true icon of the luxury car world. Prices for a well-maintained example can range from 40.000 EUR to 80.000 EUR depending on its condition and mileage. If you have the opportunity to drive one, you will not be disappointed. The 1976 Mercedes-Benz 450 SEL 6.9 is a true masterpiece of automotive engineering that will always hold a special place in the hearts of luxury car enthusiasts.
Options:
Electric windows, sunroof, radio + el. antenna, air conditioning, ABS, hydro-pneumatic with automatic level control, Webasto heater, headlight wiper, central locking
Production date | 07/1976 |
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Body Type | Sedan |
Engine | 6.834 ccm, 286 PS, V8 |
transmission | Automatic |
Steering | Left Hand Drive |
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Layout | Rear Wheel Drive |
Color - exterior | Silver |
Color - interior | Blue |
Miles/Kilometers shown | 149.736 km |
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Chassis / VIN | 11603612000572 |
Location - Country | Czechia |
Location - City | Znojmo |
4-door sedan body type; RWD (rear-wheel drive), automatic 3-speed gearbox; gasoline (petrol) engine with displacement: 6834 cm3, advertised power: 210 kW / 282 hp / 286 PS (DIN), torque: 550 Nm; characteristic dimensions: outside length: 5060 mm, width: 1870 mm, wheelbase: 2960 mm; reference weights: base curb weight: 1935 kg; top speed: 225 km/h (140 mph) (declared by factory); accelerations: 0-60 mph 7 s, 0-100 km/h 7.4 s (declared by factory)
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