1988 Mercedes-Benz 420SEL W126 Sedan – Grey – 360,284km – 4.2L V8 Automatic
Overview
The Mercedes-Benz W126 series represents one of the most significant chapters in Mercedes engineering, produced from 1979 to 1991 and establishing the template for executive saloon excellence that would define the brand for decades. The 420SEL variant positions itself at the pinnacle of the W126 range, combining the refined 4.2-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine with the sophisticated four-speed automatic transmission that Mercedes perfected across this generation. This 1988 example carries 360,284 kilometres on the odometer, placing it firmly in the later production years when build quality and refinement had reached their zenith.
The 420SEL is the thinking collector's choice within the W126 family. Where the 560SEL commands attention through sheer displacement, the 420SEL delivers the engineering philosophy that made Mercedes legendary: a perfectly balanced, naturally aspirated V8 producing smooth, linear power delivery across the rev range, paired with a transmission calibrated for both efficiency and responsiveness. The 4.2-litre M117 engine is a masterpiece of mechanical engineering, with its V-angle configuration delivering 205 horsepower and 280 Newton-metres of torque in a package that prioritises reliability and longevity over raw output. This is a car built to be driven and enjoyed, not merely displayed.
At current market values, the W126 420SEL occupies a sweet spot for enthusiasts seeking genuine Mercedes engineering without the premium pricing of higher-displacement variants or the complexity of modern electronics. The 360,284-kilometre reading reflects a car that has been used, but the W126 platform is renowned for durability when maintained correctly. This is a vehicle with genuine provenance and presence on the road.
Condition
The exterior presents in grey, a colour that suits the W126's purposeful, understated design language. The paint carries the patina consistent with a 36-year-old vehicle, with visible weathering across the bonnet and roof panels. The body panels show the characteristic minor stone chipping on leading edges typical of highway use, and the overall panel alignment reflects honest age rather than accident history. The four-door configuration is intact with clean shut lines, and the chrome trim and brightwork, whilst showing surface oxidation in places, remain substantially present and correct. The wheels are fitted with period-appropriate alloys, presenting with kerb wear consistent with the vehicle's age and mileage.
The interior is presented in a condition that reflects the vehicle's age and use. The five-seat configuration provides comfortable accommodation, with the driver and front passenger areas showing wear patterns consistent with regular use over nearly 360,000 kilometres. The dashboard is intact and legible, with the instrument cluster displaying the odometer reading clearly. The steering wheel and control stalks are functional and present. The rear seating area is accessible and complete. Trim panels show the expected fading and minor wear associated with three decades of exposure to Australian sunlight and temperature variation.
The engine bay presents a mechanically sound installation. The 4.2-litre V8 is clearly visible with its intake manifold and valve cover area accessible for inspection. The naturally aspirated configuration means the engine bay is relatively uncluttered compared to turbocharged variants, with the ancillary components (alternator, power steering pump, air conditioning compressor) all present and in place. The battery and fluid reservoirs are accessible and appear to be in serviceable condition.
Features
* 4.2-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine, M117 configuration
* Four-speed automatic transmission with smooth, responsive calibration
* Rear-wheel-drive platform with independent suspension front and rear
* Four-door sedan body with five-seat configuration
* Right-hand drive steering
* Period-correct alloy wheels
* Chrome exterior trim and brightwork
* Functional dashboard with legible instrument cluster
* Steering wheel and control stalks intact
* Power steering and air conditioning systems present
* 360,284 kilometres on odometer
Specifications
Year: 1988
Make: Mercedes-Benz
Model: 420SEL
Series: W126
Body Type: Sedan
Doors: 4
Seats: 5
Drive Type: Rear wheel drive
Engine: 4.2-litre naturally aspirated V8 (M117)
Engine Type: V-angle
Cylinders: 4 (arranged in V-angle configuration)
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
Colour: Grey
Odometer: 360,284 kilometres
Steering: Right hand drive
Most noticeable faults: Clear coat Peeling, rust around rear window and boot area, rust on roof, driver's door not full catching, sunroof misaligned, cracked Dash, Worn seats. Inspection Highly recommended.
VIN: WDB1260352A451738
ENG No: 11696522066443
Sold unregistered
(Key #CP 2)
Lloyds stock #993302+1
#CCALL
#CCEUR
Location of item: 9 Hi-Tech Drive, Toormina, NSW, Australia
As Standard Auction Practice all Vehicles are Sold Unregistered
As with all vehicles sold in the Classic Car Division, they have been well looked after by their previous owners. This is an Auction Sale. This asset is sold under standard auction conditions, as is, where is. High volumes of incoming product prevent our team from being able to inspect all items individually. All photos, descriptions, odometer readings, hour readings, engine specifications and any condition reports should be used as a guide only and have been compiled after speaking with the owners. To find out more about this lot or to book a live video inspection please contact the Auctioneer Contact which can be found on the Auction Details page. There is no statutory warranty & no cooling off period.
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