Chassis No. WDBCA39D1JA398475

Unveiled at the 1979 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Mercedes-Benz W126 S-Class was introduced in both standard- and long-wheelbase SEL form, immediately redefining the benchmark for luxury sedans. A major technical update arrived in September 1985 with the introduction of the Type 560, powered by the formidable 5,547-cc M117 all-aluminum V8, producing up to 300-horsepower. In an era defined by confidence and economic expansion, the flagship 560 SEL stood as the ultimate statement of achievement, combining comprehensive standard equipment with class-leading engineering integrity. Its restrained authority and unmistakable presence made it the preferred conveyance of heads of state, corporate leaders, and influential professionals worldwide, firmly cementing the W126's status as the definitive luxury automobile of the 1980s.

This 560 SEL's authoritative presence is accentuated by its originally specified Black (040) paintwork with a matching Black Leather (271) interior. The clientele ordering these new expected the finest luxuries on offer, and this car exemplifies that with a steering wheel-mounted airbag, anti-theft/anti-break-in warning system, automatic climate control, heat-insulating glass, heated seats front and rear, power reclining rear bench seat, foot rests in the rear, 11-speaker sound system, and a power sunroof with tilting function.

The car was purchased new by Luis Palacio through Bill Ussery Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables, Florida, and the clean CARFAX Vehicle History Report shows it was first registered on 31 May 1988. Under Palacio's care, the car was reported to have been serviced only at Ussery's dealership by its lead technician, Luis Gutierrez. By 2020, the 560 had accumulated only 18,612 miles when it was reacquired by its original selling dealer and entered its collection. The car was then entered into the current owner's collection in July 2023, with just five miles added to the odometer. Today, the car remains a true time capsule example of Mercedes' flagship sedan. It is furnished with its original owner's manual, maintenance booklet, warranty policy booklet, user guides, tools, and more. With just 18,692 miles displayed on the odometer at cataloging, it is surely one of the finest and lowest-mileage examples currently on offer, and the ideal addition to any collection seeking first-rate originality.