A highly original and usable example of Mercedes’ powerful flagship luxury saloon, which has had just two owners from new; the most recent for nearly 30 years. It is powered by a 6.3-litre M100 V8 engine with fuel injection, producing up to 184kW, and driving the rear wheels via a four-speed automatic floor-shift transmission. An original Australian-delivered car, this 300 SEL 6.3 is finished in a refined and tasteful colour scheme. The odometer shows 36,676 km, which is understood to be a true mileage of 136,676 km. What began as a secret ‘skunkworks’ project by chassis engineer Erich Waxenberger was soon signed off for production by development chief Rudolf Uhlenhaut, and the 300 SEL 6.3 became a legend as soon as it was launched. Even on the other side of the Atlantic, Road & Track magazine called it “the best sedan in the world”. Tested by the German automotive media in period, the 300 SEL 6.3 was clocked from 0-100km/h in less than 6.5 seconds and with a top speed of 220km/h. Self-levelling air suspension and ventilated disc brakes were standard. This particular 300 SEL is finished in the timeless combination of silver over a blue leather interior. Its specification includes electric front and rear windows, a sunroof, central front armrest, and storage nets behind the front seats. A modern Sony stereo head unit has been installed, but the original radio is also included. Accompanying the car is the original tool kit and various books and paperwork. Please note: the historic registration plate is not included. The paintwork is noted to have been repainted more than 20 years ago, and it is reported to be in good condition today, with a few stone chips as shown plus a small dent in the left front guard. The tyres are said to have plenty of tread, but the seller cannot confirm their age. Inside, the original blue upholstery is in fair order, with some wear and surface cracking to the leather as shown, as well as areas of discolouration on the driver’s outer bolster and central armrest in particular. There is also some wear to the rest of the interior trim, including the wood accents. The air-conditioning is not blowing cold, but was re-gassed four years ago. The electric aerial also needs some attention, and the sunroof is very stiff to open. In March 2023, classic Mercedes specialist Reinhard Klavers & Associates commissioned an overhaul of the brake callipers, and also fitted new brake hoses, made repairs to the rear axle, re-shimmed the rear callipers, topped up the differential oil and brake fluid, and replaced one of the spark plugs. The owner carried out an oil and filter service in August 2022. During the current ownership, the kingpins have also been replaced. Described by the seller as “a good honest car that presents well”, this Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.3 is a solid example of arguably the ‘grandfather’ of the modern super saloon. The older repaint still presents well, and the original leather interior adds a charming ‘patina’ to the car. This four-door V8 offers impressive performance combined with 1960s luxury, and it would make a stylish addition to any collection. The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details. This vehicle’s VIN has been checked against the Australian Personal Property Securities Register, and there is no security interest or other registration kind logged against the serial number.