Mercedes 450 SEL 6.9: The Iconic German Bruiser Turns 45 Years Old

When Mercedes first launched the 450 SEL 6.9 45 years ago, it was considered the best model the German brand had ever offered and the world’s fastest sedan.

The Mercedes 450 SEL 6.9 was the range-topping version of the W116 model when it was introduced back in the spring of 1975 and quickly became an icon for the Stuttgart carmaker.

The hand-built M100 6.9-liter V8 engine was a development of the 6.3-liter unit found in the 300 SEL 6.3, with features like a dry-sump lubrication system to retain the W116’s low hood line, aluminum cylinder heads, and mechanical fuel injection. The oil reservoir could hold a massive 12 liters (12.7 quarts), extending oil change intervals to 15,000 km (9,320 miles).

Also Read: Bentley Completes Full Digital Scan Of Iconic Blower To Build New Examples Of 1929 Car

The enormous engine, which was extremely sophisticated for its era, produced 282 HP (286 PS) and 405 lb-ft (550 Nm) of torque and was paired to a three-speed automatic transmission. This was enough power to send the 450 SEL 6.9 from 0-60 mph in 7.1 seconds (0-100 km/h in 7.4 seconds) and on to a top speed of 140 mph (225 km/h). US-spec cars offered slightly less power, at 250 HP and 360 lb-ft of torque.

Mercedes also gave the 450 SEL 6.9 a hydropneumatic self-leveling suspension in addition to stiffer anti-roll bars front and rear, as well as a limited-slip rear differential. The suspension featured four spring elements and a pressurized oil system, which was tasked with balancing the oil volume within the spring struts, which in return kept the ride height constant and kept full spring travel available.

The rear axle ratio was quite long, at 2.65, allowing lower revs during cruising and thus reducing the noise levels within the cabin. Comfort features included things like air conditioning, cruise control, central locking, power windows, a headlight cleaning system, and more.

Mercedes produced a total of just 7,380 450 SEL 6.9 models between 1975 and 1980. What was considered once the absolute best sedan in the world is today one of the most sought-after classic Mercedes and for good reason.