1984 Mercedes-Benz 380SE Saloon

When Mercedes-Benz designed a new S-Class range for the 1980s, the brief was to build the best luxury car in the world and they succeeded admirably - the W126, as Stuttgart designated the new model, was arguably the last S-Class to unequivocally hold this title. The W126 was both lighter, thanks to a new range of light-alloy V8 engines, more aerodynamic (boasting a class leading Cd of 0.36) and therefore far more fuel efficient whilst also incorporating a number of innovative safety systems like ABS and SRS airbags. Inside, the interior housed luxury including electric seats with seat-shaped switches mounted in the doors, climate control, power windows and central locking, plus of course leather trim. The 380SE variant (as here) was powered by a 3.8 litre single-overhead camshaft V8 with Bosch fuel injection mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. This gave the big Benz more than adequate performance whilst delivering a comfortable, quiet ride and decent fuel economy for such a large luxury car. With a reputation for the usual bullet-proof Mercedes Benz build quality, these cars are being increasingly sought out for their practicality, performance and collectability by today’s classic enthusiasts.