1989 Mercedes 560SEL

Description for Mercedes-Benz 500-Series 1989

1989 Mercedes Benz 560sel, 134k miles. Name: Kaiser
If you are in the market for one of the highly respected and venerable W126 chassis automobiles, you will be hard pressed to come across a finer local example at this price. This is a rare, sought after, one-tone dark blue on saddle leather w/ the biggest engine available. Over $11,000 invested in the last 3 years, including new exterior paint of factory color. It now has Minnesota Classic plates, good forever with no further registration fees in MN. Clean title in hand.
Driving this car is an incredible treat. It was partially hand-built, with fragrant and beautiful leather. The rear seats are heated, reclining (all working). The huge V8 motor is very powerful, surprising passengers with its acceleration and effortless torque. The recently serviced and tuned transmission is strong, shifting crisply as it should.
Mechanical Condition 9.5/10 overall:
This car is garage kept. It doesn't leak a drop. . .not one drop! It's in amazing mechanical condition! All belts, hoses, tires, brakes are in excellent condition (replaced). This amazing car can sit for a month and fire right up, with not even a puff of smoke. Throttle body recently replaced. Even the analog clock keeps perfect time.
Known Mechanical Issues:
1) Could use an A/C recharge. It's an r-12 system.
2) The power antenna motor/unit has been replaced, but still is stuck in the "up" position (I assume it's the dashboard switch)
3) The driver's door light switch needs to be replaced to operate the overhead lighting --cheap/easy
That's it! Seriously. Everything else works! All Windows, Sunroof, Locks, Heated Seats (front and rear!), aftermarket Kenwood stereo, rear defrost, . . .it all works!. The problematic SLS (Self leveling Suspension) was replaced with springs (reliable, cheap to maintain).
(FYI: Parts are widely available for this car online, and not expensive)
Cosmetic Condition, 8/10 overall:
As mentioned, this car has been repainted. It was done in 2012 as part of her restoration. It's a good paint job, with high quality paint and clear coat (smooth and deep finish). It's a very shiny, great looking automobile that gets many compliments from aficionados and casual onlookers alike. However, some of the areas treated for rust are returning. To be PERFECT, this car requires an estimated $1500 in professional exterior repair to be perfect. Driving "as is" it's still very beautiful!
Known Cosmetic Issues:
1) Surface only rust, about 5 square inches in total in 3 separate spots: the front driver's fender, passenger side driver's door, and passenger rear wheel arch (they are all almost unnoticeable, but I'm a super picky owner)
2) One small dent in the trunk where the previous owner struck a mailbox
3) 2 very small tears in driver's leather, hardly noticeable, but since I'm a picky owner, so I notice and disclose. Estimate to repair $200.
4) Wood console could use replacement (though I've seen much worse. . .I'm being picky). Used replacement: $100
5) Wood door in console could be replaced (fully functional, but again, I'm very picky). Used replacement $150.
6) Minor interior trim nip and tuck (I'm taking about very minor, very picky things). Mostly labor to clean up.
Some collectors view this user "patina" as desirable. With my collection, I've been the type to restore to "as new" or "better than new" condition. I tend to find parts online, and replace them as I have the time. But, I have way too many cars to keep up, and now this one is ready for a new owner/keeper/steward/curator.
If you cannot tell by now, I'm a VERY discerning car collector who takes extreme care and pride in his automobiles. I've owned 9 Mercedes (and 49 cars). If you're looking for a great example of a W126 at an accessible and very good price, in a desirable and RARE single-tone color combination, I believe this is the best W126 you can get for the money.
You arrange shipping if far away. Though, I'd meet you within 250 miles of Minneapolis.
I require a deposit if you are the winning bidder of $500.