1981 Mercedes-Benz 380 SEL - Red - 278,578km - W126, 3.8L V8, Automatic, Right-Hand Drive, Restoration Project
Price Guide: $8,000 - $14,000
1981 Mercedes-Benz 380 SEL | W126 Sedan | 3.8L V8 | Automatic | 278,578km | Red | Right-Hand Drive | Carrara QLD | Restoration Project
Description
The W126 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is one of the most over-engineered and highly regarded executive saloons in automotive history. Produced from 1979 to 1991, the W126 was built to a standard that prioritised longevity and mechanical integrity above all else. The SEL variant brings the long-wheelbase body, adding rear passenger space and presence. The 380 SEL was powered by the 3.8-litre M116 V8, delivering smooth, relaxed performance in keeping with the car's character as a genuine flagship. Right-hand drive Australian-delivery examples are comparatively rare and are sought after by the dedicated W126 collector community.
This 1981 example is presented as a restoration project requiring comprehensive work to return it to road-going condition. The red metallic exterior shows significant paint deterioration with clear coat failure across the bonnet, roof, and rear panels, and surface corrosion on the lower body sections and sills. The body structure is straight with no evidence of major accident history, and the chrome grille and bumpers remain largely intact. The interior is a mixed picture: the rear cabin presents surprisingly well, with the tan MB-Tex bench seat showing its age gracefully and the headliner intact and unstained. The front cabin has been partially stripped, with interior door components removed and stored separately, and the boot houses an assortment of disassembled parts including components from an apparent prior restoration attempt. The vendor has supplied a substantial list of mechanical work already completed, including a cleaned and recoated fuel tank, new fuel pump, filter, accumulator and injectors, new spark plugs, engine and transmission mounts, flex discs, rear calipers, rotors and parking brake shoes, new springs, fuel distributor, and inlet filter. New leather seats have also been reconditioned as part of this work.
At a guide of $8,000 to $14,000, this W126 is priced as the project it is. For the buyer with access to Mercedes specialist knowledge and workshop facilities, a W126 380 SEL in right-hand drive at this price point represents a genuine opportunity. Completed W126 restorations regularly exceed their investment at auction, and the platform's inherent engineering integrity means a solid foundation is there if you're willing to put in the work.
Features
* 3.8-litre M116 V8 petrol engine (confirmed by compliance plate)
* Automatic transmission
* Right-hand drive, Australian-delivery specification
* Long-wheelbase SEL body
* Sunroof fitted
* Aftermarket tow bar fitted
* Tan MB-Tex interior trim
* Original burled walnut dashboard and door trim
* ABS braking system (confirmed by instrument cluster)
* Odometer reads 278,578km
* Three keys present (period-correct Mercedes key fob)
* Substantial mechanical work recently completed (see description)
* Spare wheel present in boot
Condition Notes
* Significant clear coat failure and paint oxidation across bonnet, roof, and rear panels; full respray required
* Surface corrosion visible on lower body panels and sills
* Front bumper shows impact damage with cracking
* Chrome trim exhibits surface rust and pitting
* Front cabin partially stripped; interior door components removed and stored in boot
* Headlining intact and presentable; rear cabin in better condition than front
* Engine bay shows grime and wear consistent with high mileage and storage
* Rubber hoses and belts show age-related hardening; replacement recommended
* Tyres aged and unsuitable for road use
* Extensive restoration required before road use
Note on Model Identification
The compliance plate and dealer documentation identify this vehicle as a 380 SEL, not a 500 SEL. The 3.8-litre V8 engine specification is consistent with the 380 SEL designation. Vendor advises the vehicle has been listed under the 500 SEL name but the compliance plate and key tag both read 380 SEL.
Specifications
Year: 1981
Make/Model: Mercedes-Benz 380 SEL
Series: W126
Body: Four-Door Sedan (Long Wheelbase)
Engine: 3.8-litre M116 V8, Naturally Aspirated
Transmission: Automatic
Drive: Rear-Wheel Drive
Odometer: 278,578 Kilometres
Colour: Red Metallic
Seats: 5
Steering: Right-Hand Drive
Location: Carrara, QLD
Price Guide: AUD $8,000 - $14,000
VIN: WDB12603322009634
(Key #CC36)
Lloyds stock #655821+1
#CCALL
#CCEUR
Location of item: 69 Manchester Road, Carrara, QLD, Australia
** This vendor is not registered for GST - therefore GST is not applicable on this asset **
As Standard Auction Practice all Vehicles are Sold Unregistered
As with all vehicles sold in the Classic Car Division, they have been well looked after by their previous owners. This is an Auction Sale. This asset is sold under standard auction conditions, as is, where is. High volumes of incoming product prevent our team from being able to inspect all items individually. All photos, descriptions, odometer readings, hour readings, engine specifications and any condition reports should be used as a guide only and have been compiled after speaking with the owners. To find out more about this lot or to book a live video inspection please contact the Auctioneer Contact which can be found on the Auction Details page. There is no statutory warranty & no cooling off period.
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