- The flagship S-Class model of the 116 model series sets new standards as a high-performance luxury saloon in 1975
- Eight-cylinder engine from the prestige vehicle Mercedes-Benz 600 (W 100) with increased displacement
- Today a sought-after classic with plenty of power, comfort and elegance
Powerful, extremely comfortable, prestigious: the Mercedes-Benz 450 SEL 6.9 is a veritable high-end power saloon. At its unveiling 50 years ago, this top-of-the-line variant of the 116 model series enchants the professional press – and customers as well: driving the “six point nine” signals the utmost confidence and sophistication. Fast drivers are great fans of high-performance vehicles. No wonder numerous Formula One Champions of that era opt for a 450 SEL 6.9 as a privately owned vehicle. Even today, this iconic luxury saloon remains a modernly elegant presence on the road, impressing with comfort and performance.
“The 450 SEL 6.9 is the top-of-the-line version of the S-Class of that time, and has consequently always been very much sought-after. Many celebrities also possess a better one; performance and luxury are a fascinating combination. Demand in the classic car market is consistently high. Price trends over the past years reflect this: in 2025, Classic Data listed an average price of just over EUR 50,000 for a vehicle in excellent condition (Grade 1) – today, ten years later, it’s already more than EUR 80,000. Exceptional vehicles can easily fetch more than EUR 90,000. That’s why buyers should not hesitate when it comes to good vehicles. As always, the rule is: the better car is almost always the better buy. Ideally, there should be a verifiable maintenance and repair history from a Mercedes-Benz Classic Center or a Mercedes-Benz ClassicPartner.”
Patrik Gottwick, Sales and Marketing Manager at Mercedes-Benz Heritage GmbH
The model series 116 is the first generation of Mercedes-Benz executive class vehicles to bear the name S-Class. Introduced in September 1972, it wins numerous awards, including “Car of the Year” in 1974 for the 450 SE. In May 1975, the 450 SEL 6.9 rounds out the model range as its top variant; the press launch of the vehicle takes place in Le Hohwald in Alsace. The media are thrilled, producing headlines such as “The best car in the world” and “The fastest saloon in the world”. With a top speed of 225 km/h, the “six point nine” is among the fastest vehicles on the road in the 1970s. In the mid 1970s, its acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.4 seconds is rivalled only by very powerful sports cars.
The 450 SEL 6.9 comes with a very extensive standard equipment package. For instance, air conditioning, central locking, cruise control, power windows, headlamp cleaning system, velour upholstery and inertia-reel seat belts in both the front and rear seats are all included – features that are by no means standard in most other models in 1975. The rear seats are especially spacious. The top-of-the-line variant of the 116 model series ships exclusively as a long version, with the additional 100 millimetres benefiting rear-seat passengers. Optional extras include an electric sunroof (DM 987.90) and the extremely rare Becker AT 160 S car phone (DM 13,542). Price list No. 16 of 28 January 1976 lists a basic price of DM 69,930 for the top-of-the-line 450 SEL 6.9 of the S-Class – more than double the price of the 280 SEL, the entry-level long-wheelbase variant of the 116 model series.
How can you recognise the “six point nine” from the outside – apart from the badge on the boot lid? There are three distinguishing features: beneath the grille is a crescent-shaped air deflector, which increases air flow to the powerful engine; the vehicle rolls along on wide-base 215/70 VR 14 tyres (compared to 205/70 HR 14 for other eight-cylinder vehicles and 185 HR 14 for six-cylinder models); and at the rear, the dual exhaust system has larger tailpipes as befits the top-of-the-line saloon. Contrary to popular belief, the characteristic forged aluminium Fuchs wheels are not part of the standard equipment package for this vehicle: even for the 450 SEL 6.9, they are an optional extra listed at DM 1,554.00.
A V8 engine with plenty of power and torque
The M 100 E 69 engine is a highlight of the 450 SEL 6.9. This eight-cylinder aggregate is based on the V8 engine of the legendary prestige vehicle Mercedes-Benz 600 (W 100). Its cylinder bore is increased from 103 millimetres to 107 millimetres while keeping the stroke the same, resulting in a displacement of 6,834 cubic centimetres for the 450 SEL 6.9. This M 100 generates 210 kW (286 hp) at 4,250 rpm and reaches its maximum torque of 550 newton metres at 3,000 rpm. The three-speed automatic transmission, while fundamentally the same as in other 4.5-litre eight-cylinder models, is adapted to handle the higher output and increased torque of the “six point nine”.
When it comes to maintenance costs, the 450 SEL 6.9 has various advantages. For instance, the hydraulic valve clearance compensation mechanism eliminates the need for retrospective adjustments. Thanks to a newly developed cylinder head gasket, it is no longer necessary to retighten the cylinder heads. And dry sump lubrication makes it possible to place the engine lower down and extends oil change intervals to 15,000 kilometres.
For the suspension, Mercedes-Benz introduced a new concept in the 450 SEL 6.9. Rather than using the pneumatic suspension found in the 300 SEL 6.3 (W 109) with 184 kW (250 hp), the new top-of-the-line model features a hydropneumatic variant with hydraulic level control. Four spring elements also function as shock absorbers. A pressurised oil system balances the oil volume within the spring struts. As a result, the vehicle’s ride height remains constant and the full spring travel always remains available.
Well-sorted stock of spare parts directly from the manufacturer
Between February 1975 and September 1980, exactly 7,380 units of the 450 SEL 6.9 are produced. Today, Mercedes-Benz Classic Genuine Parts maintains an extensive stock of spare parts for this model – something only the manufacturer can offer. These spare and wearing parts ensure the highest levels of quality and authenticity right down to the last detail, along with short delivery times. This spare parts service helps keep the brand’s classics in authentic condition long-term. The range for the 450 SEL 6.9 extends from the A/C on-off switch (Part No. A 000 820 79 10) for EUR 17.47 to the specific steering box assembly (Part No. A 116 460 12 01) for EUR 3,756.20 (prices include value-added tax). Key parts for engine overhauls are also available, with more being reissued.
