This classic Mercedes-Benz 560 SEL has some exotic blue blood running through its veins, as it was owned by the late King Hussein, of Jordan.
Having ruled over the Middle Eastern country from 1952 until 1999, the King demanded only the best vehicles, and this particular Merc’ ticked all the right boxes to be used by the royal family at their private estate, in Ascot, whilst in the UK.
Produced in 1987, the 560 SEL was armored to ‘B4 level’, meaning that thicker glass was fitted all around, the roof and floor were strengthened, and armor plating was added. This operation is estimated to have cost more than £200,000 (~$240,000) in 1988 and, as a result, the car now tips the scales at roughly four tons (~8,800 lbs).
However, despite the massive weight, it can still cruise with ease, thanks to a 300hp 5.6-liter V8 engine. Finished in Pearl Grey over a black leather interior, the car has heated and electronically operated front seats, a telephone, the original Becker Mexico CD ‘Autoradio’ system, and a microphone, connected to an exterior speaker hidden in the grille, which is found in the glovebox.
Despite being 29 years old, the Mercedes-Benz 560 SEL is still able to fulfill its original duties today, as the vendor, SilverstoneAuctions, claims. Its odometer stands at 25,990 miles (41,827 km), and the car is accompanied by its original brochures, manual, service book and MoT certificates. The auctioneers estimate that it will fetch somewhere between £25,000 and £30,000 ($30,460-$36,55 at the November 12 event at the NEC in Birmingham
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