Lot 302: 1994 Mercedes-Benz S500

The S-Class, the series of large luxury flagship saloons produced by Mercedes-Benz, has represented an important role in nine lines of the German marque's models dating back to the mid-1950s, and as such it is well established as the world's best-selling luxury flagship saloon. As the foremost model in the Mercedes-Benz line-up, the S-Class has debuted many of the company's latest innovations, including advanced safety systems, drive-train technologies and interior features. Notably, the S-Class introduced the first airbag supplemental restraint systems, seatbelt pre-tensioners, and electronic stability control. The name S-Class is the English abbreviation of the German word sonderklasse which translates as 'special class' and in automotive terms denotes a specially equipped car. Although used colloquially for decades, the S-Class designation was first officially applied in 1973 with the debut of the W116 model line. It is not uncommon for salesman to confront customers interested in an E-Class with the elitist adage 'S-Class or no class'. With a modest reserve, this example must represent more 'bang for ones buck' than almost any other car on the market. Supplied with a full service history from Mercedes-Benz specialist Hughs of Beaconsfield for almost its entire life, it also comes with assorted receipts for parts and services. Described as being in good to excellent condition in every respect and presented in understated blue paintwork with matching blue leather trim, a MoT test certificate valid until December 2008 and a full Mercedes-Benz owner's pack and accompanying documentation, this top of the range grand tourer has more computing power than the early NASA space shuttles and about the same power output!