Mercedes-Benz’s W108 and W109 series of automobiles were produced beginning in 1965 at Mercedes-Benz’s headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany, succeeding W111 and W112 models. With contemporary styling from Paul Bracq, it bore distinct family resemblance to other Mercedes-Benz products of the era. These cars were a big hit with customers, and nearly 383,000 versions of cars featuring the W108 and W109 chassis were built.

Arriving in late 1969, the new 3.5-litre V-8 featured 200 brake horsepower and added a little extra bump in performance, which for many proved to be a worthwhile upgrade over the six-cylinder option. From the six-cylinder 300 SEL to the 300 SEL 3.5, 0–62 mph times dropped from 12.2 seconds to 10 seconds flat. As the top-of-the-line sedan, amenities such as power steering, a radio, and an automatic transmission were standard equipment on the 300 SEL 3.5, along with Mercedes-Benz’s supremely comfortable air suspension. This model would see a relatively short production run, with the last example leaving the production line in September of 1972. Over the course of four years, only 9,483 examples were produced.

This 300 SEL 3.5 was originally purchased new by the consignor’s mother as her daily driver and has remained in his family’s ownership in Rome ever since. Sharing garage space with a number of highly collectable Mercedes-Benz and AMG products, it is no wonder that it has been very well kept since day one, as evidenced by its exceptional condition throughout. Even more incredible is the car’s mileage, showing 63,380 kilometres from new on its odometer. This equates to having been driven less than 1,400 kilometres each year of its life. Still wearing its original interior with charming patina, it is rare to find a 300 SEL in such well-preserved condition.

Highly regarded in enthusiast circles for their iconic looks, reliability, and driving manners, 300 SELs were great cars to own and enjoy when new and remain so today. As many examples were driven hard and succumbed to mistreatment or lack of service or maintenance, it is wonderful to see an exceptionally well-preserved and cared-for example that has remained in the ownership of the same family from new. This classic Mercedes-Benz will surely please its next owner, as it has its current custodians for the last 46 years.