Classic Diplomate on 2040-cars

Never actually intended for the American market and imported on a very limited basis, the Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL is rare and collectible in its own right. This Mercedes-Benz W126
is one of a series of flagship vehicles manufactured by German automotive Mercedes-Benz. The line premiered in September 1979. 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 W126 was the second generation of the Mercedes- Benz flagship to officially bear the S-Class name referring to Sonderklasse or "special class." This gold Mercedes W126 features a powerful, fuel injected 5-litre, 303 cubic inch V-S engine with 302hp and 4-speed automatic transmission. Compared to its predecessor, the W116, the W126 is more aerodynamic, fuel efficient, capacious, and powerful. The W126 S-Class unveiled a new Mercedes-Benz design style which was
subsequently used on other vehicles in the company's lineup. The W126 line also introduced many Mercedes-Benz safety innovations, including the first airbag supplemental restraint system, seatbelt pretensioners, and traction ccntrol.'" 

The SEL refers to the Special Class- Long. The long wheelbase adds to the comfort and luxury of the ride that only Mercedes-Benz can provide. The standard features included:
anti-theft alarm, outside temperature sensor, automatic temperature control, heated outside mirrors, front and back heated seats, electronically adjustable headrests with memory
recline, premium sound system, burred walnut interior with leather and anti-lock braking system. 

A black 500 SEL Mercedes was originally purchased by Michael Jackson for his
Neverland Ranch. He later gifted it to his Aunt. These 500 SELs were often used for
diplomatic transports. With the ownership of this vehicle lies the ability to own a piece of
automotive history.

"Oh Lord, won't you buy me a Mercedes Benz. My friends all have Porches, I must make
amends. Worked hard all my lifetime, no help from my friends. Oh Lord, won't you buy me
a Mercedes Benz." -Janis Joplin.

Our research indicates that this Gold Mercedes might have been brought in from Canada to Traverse City, Michigan. Its original price in 1985 was over $60,000. Today the S class vehicles are selling for over $100,000 new! We think, from information from a prior owner, that it was owned by the dealer for his personal car and then stored for a while and passed on to a friend. It may have had an engine fire or significant manifold problems but all has been replaced. We have had substantial work done including the replacement of:

·         Engine, including all transfers and engine mounts

·         Head, intake and exhaust gaskets,

·         timing chain, guide rails and tensioner

·         distributor cap/rotor and spark plugs

·         front and rear crank seals

·         air injection check valve, solenoid valve and seals/orings

·         oil pressure and temp sender and oil filter stand with orings and gaskets

·         manifold, catalytic converter and muffler (by Boubin)

·         rewired front wiring harness (not replaced)

This work was done at European Motors Limited in Cedar Rapids, IA We have the documentation.