1981 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL - Red - 278,578km - 3.8L V8 Automatic
Overview
This 1981 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL represents a significant piece of German automotive engineering from the W126 generation, one of the most respected executive saloons ever built. The 500 SEL was the flagship of Mercedes' range during this era, powered by the legendary 3.8-litre V-angle eight-cylinder engine paired with an automatic transmission. The W126 platform defined the modern luxury saloon template and remains highly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. Right-hand drive configuration makes this Australian-delivered example particularly valuable to local buyers.
The vehicle presents as a genuine barn-find classic requiring comprehensive restoration. The red metallic exterior shows significant paint deterioration consistent with extended outdoor storage, with clear coat failure visible across the bonnet and roof panels. The body structure remains sound with straight panels overall, though the lower sections display surface corrosion and water staining from prolonged exposure. Interior trim shows age-appropriate wear with visible water damage to door cards and headlining, indicating past moisture ingress. The odometer reads 278,578 kilometres, reflecting genuine use over four decades. This is an authentic restoration project for the dedicated enthusiast with access to specialist Mercedes knowledge and workshop facilities.
At the classic car market value of approximately AUD $8,000 to $14,000 for a project 500 SEL in this condition, this represents genuine opportunity for a buyer committed to returning a significant piece of Mercedes heritage to its former glory. The 500 SEL commands respect in restoration circles, and completed examples regularly exceed their restoration investment at auction.
Condition
The exterior paint holds poor gloss with extensive clear coat failure across horizontal surfaces, particularly the bonnet and roof. Stone chipping is visible on the bonnet leading edge with underlying primer exposure. The red metallic finish shows fading and oxidation consistent with outdoor storage without protection. Panel gaps remain even and straight, indicating no major accident history. All four doors open and close smoothly. The front bumper bar shows impact damage with cracking to the plastic, and the chrome trim exhibits surface rust and pitting. Lower body panels display water staining and surface corrosion, heaviest on the sills and rear quarter panels. The windscreen is intact with no visible cracks. Both headlights and tail lights are present, though lenses show age-related haziness.
The interior presents with substantial wear and water damage. The tan leather seats show bolster wear and cracking consistent with age and moisture exposure. The steering wheel exhibits wear on the grip areas. The dashboard is intact but shows sun damage and minor cracks. The headlining sags noticeably and displays water staining, indicating past roof leaks. Door cards show discolouration and water damage. The carpets are damp and stained. The boot floor exhibits rust and corrosion with visible surface deterioration. All four windows operate, though seals are deteriorated and no longer provide effective weather protection.
The engine bay is accessible and the 3.8L V8 is visible beneath the engine cover. The engine itself appears structurally sound with no obvious external damage, though the bay shows dust and debris consistent with storage. Fluid levels cannot be assessed from static photographs. The battery is present. Hoses and belts show age-related hardening and cracking. No obvious oil seepage is visible, though a full mechanical assessment would be essential before any attempt to start the engine.
The wheels are original Mercedes steel items fitted with aged tyres showing minimal tread depth and sidewall cracking, unsuitable for road use. A spare wheel is present in the boot well. The suspension components are visible and appear intact, though dust and corrosion suggest they have not been exercised recently. Parts fitted include, cleaned fuel tank and recoated, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel accumilator, fuel injectors, spark plugs, engine mounts, transmission mount, flex discs x2 drive train, rear calipers, rear rotors, rear parking brake shoes, springs, fuel distributor, inlet filter/screen, new leather seats (reconditioned), deep clean, new wiper regulator & blades
Features
* 3.8-litre V-angle eight-cylinder petrol engine
* Automatic transmission
* Right-hand drive configuration
* Original Mercedes steel wheels
* Tan leather interior trim
* Power steering
* Manual windows
* Original dashboard instrumentation
* Spare wheel and tools present in boot
* Original Mercedes engine cover badging
* Four-door saloon body
* Five-seat configuration
Condition Notes
* Significant paint deterioration and clear coat failure across bonnet and roof panels
* Water staining and corrosion visible on lower body panels and sills
* Front bumper shows impact damage with plastic cracking
* Chrome trim exhibits surface rust and pitting
* Interior water damage to door cards, headlining, and carpets
* Headlining sags with visible water staining
* Leather seats show cracking and bolster wear
* Door seals deteriorated, no longer weather-tight
* Boot floor shows rust and corrosion
* Tyres aged and unsuitable for road use
* Engine bay shows dust and corrosion consistent with storage
* Hoses and belts show age-related hardening
* Vehicle unregistered and unroadworthy in current condition
* Comprehensive restoration required before any road use
Specifications
Year: 1981
Make: Mercedes-Benz
Model: 500 SEL
Body: Four-door Sedan
Engine: 3.8-litre V-angle eight-cylinder
Transmission: Automatic
Drive: Rear wheel drive
Odometer: 278,578 kilometres
Colour: Red metallic
Seats: Five
Steering: Right hand drive
Price Guide: AUD $8,000 to $14,000
VIN: WDB12603322009634
(Key #CC36)
Lloyds stock #655821+1
#CCALL
#CCEUR
Location of item: 69 Manchester Road, Carrara, QLD, Australia
** This vendor is not registered for GST - therefore GST is not applicable on this asset **
As Standard Auction Practice all Vehicles are Sold Unregistered
As with all vehicles sold in the Classic Car Division, they have been well looked after by their previous owners. This is an Auction Sale. This asset is sold under standard auction conditions, as is, where is. High volumes of incoming product prevent our team from being able to inspect all items individually. All photos, descriptions, odometer readings, hour readings, engine specifications and any condition reports should be used as a guide only and have been compiled after speaking with the owners. To find out more about this lot or to book a live video inspection please contact the Auctioneer Contact which can be found on the Auction Details page. There is no statutory warranty & no cooling off period.
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