Mercedes-Benz S Class 1986 (B) 500 SEL Saloon 4dr Auto

1 Previous Owner, This Lot will be sold at auction at Symphony of Spring; Ascot Racecourse on Saturday 7th March. ArmouredA great car for those who are safety consciousThe MercedesBenz 500 SEL Armoured stands as a unique blend of luxury, performance, and protection. Based on the flagship MercedesBenz W126 series, this armoured variant was designed for highranking officials, dignitaries, and individuals seeking maximum security without compromising comfort. Externally, it retained the elegant, understated lines of the W126 saloon, a hallmark of MercedesBenz design in the 1980s, while its reinforced body panels and bulletresistant glass provided a formidable defensive shell. The vehicle was powered by a robust 5.0litre V8 engine, offering smooth yet powerful acceleration capable of handling the extra weight of the armour. Suspensions were reinforced to support the additional mass, and braking systems were upgraded for safe, responsive stopping. Inside, the 500 SEL Armoured did not sacrifice luxury for safety: plush velour seats, extensive wood trim, and advanced climate control created an environment of opulence, while armoured doors, runflat tyres, and specialised communications systems ensured operational security. This armoured Mercedes also included discreet modifications such as reinforced floor panels, fireresistant materials, and advanced locking mechanisms, making it suitable for hostile situations without drawing attention. In many ways, the 500 SEL Armoured exemplified the Cold Warera philosophy of combining subtle elegance with militarygrade protection.This left hand drive 500 SEL presents well in white with blue velour trim. We are advised this MercedesBenz runs well, although it must be remembered the armour protection adds around a ton in weight meaning, this is slower than its standard compatriots. These W126 saloons are very graceful and offer comfort and legroom in abundance, hence why they were so popular as chauffeur driven cars. It is supplied with a V5 registration document and a current MoT test certificate valid until 11th May 2026. Today, these vehicles are rare collectors items, valued not only for their historical significance but also for their remarkable engineering, representing a time when luxury and personal security converged seamlessly in the automotive world. Consigned by Stewart Banks