Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL Automatik (W 109)

Vehicle Description

– 1969 Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL
– 2.8-litre six-cylinder 118 kW (160 hp) engine with automatic transmission
– one of only 2,519 units built with this engine specification
– unwarranted mileage of 56,600 km
– exterior paintwork in dark olive with cognac leather interior
– engine and gearbox overhauled several years ago, exhaust system renewed
– air conditioning ex works, power windows and electric antenna
– front and rear fog lights, reading lamps in the rear
– retro-style radio installed
– Mercedes-Benz data card available
– German registration documents and historic plates

The era of the successful Mercedes-Benz W 109 series began in 1965 and lasted until 1972. The luxury sedans with the designation 300 SEL were equipped with air suspension, which distinguished them from the W 108 models with steel springs. Unlike its predecessor (W 112), this version was only available with a long wheelbase. The W 109 had disc brakes on all four wheels as standard. The first version produced had a 3.0-litre 125 kW (170 hp) aluminium engine. This was replaced in 1967 by the 2.8-litre engine also known from the Pagoda, which was almost as powerful but easier to produce and more fuel-efficient. The 6-cylinder engines featured a mechanical six-piston injection pump by Bosch and were supplied as standard with a four-speed manual transmission. However, a four-speed automatic transmission could also be ordered as an optional extra. In 1968, the interior and the design of the steering column were changed. As of 1967, the 300 SEL 6.3 was available with the most powerful V8 engine and 184 kW (250 hp). This version quickly found its way into racing. In 1969, the 2.8-litre engine was replaced by a new 3.5-litre plant. Especially for the American market, there was also a 4.5 litre version. Occasionally W 109 were customized into convertibles and landaulets, possibly the best known being the partially armoured landaulet for Pope Paul VI.

Vehicle Overview