Mercedes-Benz 450 SEL 6.9 turns 50: iconic V8 saloon remembered

The 450 SEL 6.9, once the most powerful S-Class, turns 50. Discover its performance legacy, celebrity owners, and classic car market value.

Fifty years ago, in May 1975, Mercedes-Benz introduced a car that would become not just a pinnacle of engineering, but a symbol of its era. The Mercedes-Benz 450 SEL 6.9, flagship of the W116 series, entered the scene as the ultimate luxury saloon—powerful, technologically advanced, and lavishly equipped.

Powered by a 6.9-liter V8 engine derived from the legendary M100 of the Mercedes-Benz 600, the car delivered 286 horsepower and 550 Nm of torque. With these specifications, it accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.4 seconds—performance that in the mid-1970s was reserved for elite sports cars. Its top speed of 225 km/h made it one of the fastest sedans of its time, a figure that still commands respect today.

Mercedes-Benz paid particular attention to comfort and features: air conditioning, power windows, central locking, cruise control, and even velour upholstery were standard. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom thanks to the extended wheelbase, which added 100 millimeters exclusively for the long-wheelbase variant. Optional extras included the rare Becker AT 160 S car phone, priced at 13,542 Deutsche Marks—an extravagance by any era's standards.

The car’s engineering remains impressive. Instead of the air suspension found in the 300 SEL 6.3, the 450 SEL 6.9 used a new hydropneumatic system with height adjustment and four spring elements acting as shock absorbers. This configuration kept ride height constant and allowed full suspension travel regardless of load.

The 450 SEL 6.9 quickly became a favorite not only among motoring journalists but also celebrities. Owners included Frank Sinatra, Telly Savalas, Claude François, and Formula One champions James Hunt and Emerson Fittipaldi. Its blend of elegance and performance also made it a screen star, appearing in films such as Ronin and Lost Highway, as well as various German TV shows.

Today, interest in the 450 SEL 6.9 is only increasing. Auction prices for well-preserved models can reach up to €90,000 and beyond. Mercedes-Benz Classic supports the model with original spare parts—including suspension and steering components—making full restoration to factory condition possible.

Fifty years on, the 450 SEL 6.9 hasn't lost its magic. It remains not just a chapter in the brand’s history, but a milestone in automotive luxury and engineering. As the industry shifts rapidly, this car reminds us of a time when power, comfort, and ambition merged into one truly exceptional saloon.

Source: mercedes-benz.com