1976 MERCEDES-BENZ 450 SEL 6.9

This 1976 Mercedes-Benz 450 SEL 6.9 is a superb example of one of the most sought-after classic high-performance saloons. The most desirable W116-model Mercedes-Benz, it offers effortless performance, imposing road presence, and an abundance of space for daily drives or longer touring trips.

This SEL 6.9 is finished in the attractive colour combination of Astral Silver Metallic (735) over Black Leather (201). From the factory, this 6.9-litre saloon was equipped with 205/70VR14 Michelin tyres on aluminium disc wheels, as well as a leather-trimmed interior featuring a Becker Mexico radio. The specification also included an electric sunroof, side window panes and heat-insulating glass, Bosch headlamps, a passing light signal system for Italy, and an automatic antenna with radio installation.

This car’s Certificate of Origin was issued on 29 March 1976 and it was registered in Italy on 14 May 1976, being assigned Italian registration MI X90506. Its pre-delivery inspection was completed by Mercedes-Benz S.C.A. S.p.A. COMO before it was sold new to P.M.B S.p.A. in Vigevano, Milan, on 18 May 1976. In May 1992, Mercedes-Benz dealer Canella Rento S.p.A. purchased the car, servicing and maintaining it in their workshop. The car then changed ownership to Canella Auto on 4 February 2010 (the same ownership as Canella Rento S.p.A. but with a change of registration based on a company name change or acquisition).

The car was then purchased by a car dealer in Imperia, Italy, on 6 December 2010, before it was bought by Mercedes-Benz dealer Autohaus Rosier GmbH & Co. and imported to Germany on 5 April 2011. In Germany, the car was assigned registration number M-VK 690. Shortly after, the car was then purchased by its current Italian owner, where it returned to Italy and was registered with number EN 761 YH. Under this ownership, the 450 SEL 6.9 was registered with the Automotoclub Storico Italiano (A.S.I.) on 13 November 2014, receiving its A.S.I. gold plate.

With less than 66,000km on the odometer, this Mercedes-Benz shows minimal evidence of use both inside and out and has been well maintained over its lifetime, with 10 stamps – the most recent from 2012 – in the car’s original service book. Various Mercedes-Benz invoices from April 2011 to September 2012 are included in the history file, totalling more than €17,000. The car’s paintwork looks smooth and even, and its beautiful black leather interior appears pristine with very few creases. The engine bay looks equally well cared-for and is remarkably clean.

Finished in an elegant colour combination, this car is accompanied by its original owner’s manual, warranty and service booklets, and spare key, as well as the original data cards that confirm its original factory specification. As featured in such films as Ronin, C'était un rendez-vous, and Lost Highway, this beautiful Mercedes-Benz 450 SEL 6.9 is a terrific example of a car that is not only a benchmark among luxury limousines, but also a silver screen star.