Lot 410: 1989 Mercedes-Benz 560 SEC

Premiering in September 1979 as the successor to the earlier W116 line, the W126 series was the second generation of the Mercedes-Benz flagship to officially bear the S-Class name, referring to "Sonderklasse" or "special class." The W126 series was initially offered in straight-6, V8, and turbo diesel sedan models. In September 1981, 2-door coupé versions of the W126 were introduced. Compared to its predecessor, the W126 was more aerodynamic, fuel efficient, capacious, and powerfully engined. The W126 S-Class debuted a new Mercedes-Benz design style which was subsequently used on other vehicles in the company's lineup. The W126 line also introduced many notable Mercedes-Benz safety innovations, including the first airbag supplemental restraint systems, seatbelt pretensioners, and traction control.The W126 had a twelve year production run between 1979 and 1991, the longest of any S-Class generation since the flagship models were first built in the mid-1950s. The different body styles of the W126 S-Class achieved a combined sales total of 892,123 units (818,063 sedans and 74,060 coupés), making the W126 the most popular S-Class ever produced.Named in accordance to their engine size, the W126 series initially included the 280, 300, 380, and 500 series models. Following the first S-Class mid-cycle refresh, the W126 series included 260, 300, 350, 420, 500, and 560 models. Variants included SE (standard wheelbase), SEL (long wheelbase), SEC (coupe), and diesel models.The car on offer today is a 560 SEC coupe model, which represents the finest of this particular generation of S-Class models. It is offered in good condition throughout, and has recently benefited from the fitting of a new steel exhaust, refurbrished alloy wheels and new tyres. Finished in blue with a grey interior, this car represents the best of Mercedes engineering, and would make an excellent addition to any collection.