Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.3

When it was launched in 1968, the Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.3 was a sensation: a dignified luxury saloon on the outside, but with the powerful V8 engine of the 600 (W100) under the bonnet. With 250 hp and 500 Nm of torque, it catapulted itself from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.5 seconds – a figure that was reserved for super sports cars at the time.

The 300 SEL 6.3 combined uncompromising comfort with breathtaking driving dynamics. Air suspension, automatic transmission, power steering and an outstanding braking system for the time made it not only fast, but also easy to control. It was king on the left-hand lane of the motorway, set standards internationally and is still considered the founder of the high-performance saloon today.

Our vehicle was delivered to my Mercedes-Benz importer in Lugano, Switzerland, in 1970, where the vehicle was always serviced in the early years. The original service booklet from back then provides sufficient information. For the first six years, the car was owned by a nobleman in Castagnola in the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland. In 1976, the second owner, an acquaintance of the first owner, took over the vehicle with a chauffeur-driven 85,000 kilometres. He cherished and cared for the vehicle and kept it for no less than 39 years. In 2015, the current owner bought the vehicle and imported it to Germany. Today, a good 10 years later, it is still in third ownership after a good 55 years of life.

The almost untouched original condition is remarkable. Most of the paintwork is still the first original paint. Only the roof has been repainted up to the chrome trim on the left and right rear side panels. However, this was apparently carried out so well that the highest paint values on the roof are only just over 200μ. Previous expert reports therefore even assumed a complete first coat of paint. For the sake of transparency, however, we would like to point out the above-mentioned components that have been thinly painted over once. It is hard to believe that the vehicle was never repainted in its entirety, given the fantastic paintwork. It’s amazing how good it still looks after 55 years.

The interior of the vehicle is no less amazing. Without any damage or tears to the velour, the 6.3 is, without exaggeration, more reminiscent of the condition of a current year-old car. In addition to the fabric interior, the wood is still completely original. However, the speakers in the doors and the black storage compartment in the centre console are no longer original. The first owner had an 8-track cassette player installed here, which was later removed. The exhaust rear silencer, which comes from a W116, has also been retrofitted.

Otherwise, however, all components are correct and original. The engine and gearbox are also in marvellous condition and are “matching numbers” according to the data card. The technology, including the complex air suspension, was overhauled once in 2020 for around €13,500. Since then, the 6.3 has only been driven approx. 1,000 km. Of course, a new complete customer service is mandatory when selling.

In summary, it can be said that the 300 SEL 6.3 is a breathtaking vehicle in itself, combining power and elegance like no other saloon. If you then find a 6.3 in such a state of preservation, it is best to strike quickly. The number of unrestored original vehicles in such a condition will not increase.

Viewings and test drives are of course possible at any time by prior appointment. The vehicle is being sold privately by us on behalf of a customer. Subject to errors and prior sale.