For years, the Mercedes-Benz S Class has been the gold standard that all other automotive manufacturers compare their luxury cars to. Stately, timeless, and innovate in every generation, the S-class is often the first vehicle to come to mind when the world’s wealthy are in search of a new automobile. For the 1970s generation of S-class (W116), the most desirable iteration was the 450 SEL 6.9.

Based on the long-wheelbase W116 chassis, Mercedes-Benz shoehorned a gigantic 6.9-liter V-8 into the engine bay, one capable of producing 286 brake horsepower. Despite the car’s monumental gross weight of 5,335 pounds, the 6.9 accelerates from 0–60 mph in a little over seven seconds and boasts a top speed of nearly 140 mph—mind-bending performance for such a heavy vehicle! By the end of production, only 1,816 of the 6.9 were sold to the United States over the course of four years of production.

This particular 450 SEL 6.9 was delivered new in 1979 through Walters Mercedes-Benz in Los Angeles, California, and has remained in Southern California for its entire life. William M. Keck, purchased this car as well as another 6.9, and both were identically finished in Milan Brown Metallic paint and Bamboo interior. It remained with Mr. Keck for many years before it was sold to another prominent Southern California collection where it has remained ever since. The odometer currently shows just under 30,000 miles and is presented in original and unrestored condition. It is accompanied by a set of manuals, its original window sticker, a Bill of Sale, and the factory-correct tool kit, and it even wears a correct set of new Michelin XWX tires.

The spiritual predecessor of the S65 AMG sedan produced by Mercedes-Benz today, the 450 SEL 6.9 was the ultimate German autobahn cruiser and an automobile as blindingly fast as it is subtle. With relatively low mileage when compared to its peers, this particular example is presented in well-preserved and original condition and is the perfect choice for someone looking for a classic stable-mate for their new S65 AMG.