1978 Mercedes-Benz 450 SEL (W116) |

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1978 Mercedes-Benz 450 SEL (W116)

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Mileage~114,342 on clock
TransmissionAutomatic
Engine4.5-litre
LocationDesford, Leicestershire

AUCTION CLOSED

1978 Mercedes-Benz 450 SEL (W116)

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Introduction

Ashley Dawson

Professional Consigner

Few cars define 1970s executive motoring quite like the Mercedes-Benz 450 SEL.

As part of the revered W116 generation – the first model officially to wear the S-Class designation – the 450 SEL combined understated styling, engineering integrity, and effortless V8 performance in a way few rivals could match.

Coming fresh to market with our vendor, this 1978 example presents as a handsome and honest classic, finished in an elegant silver that perfectly complements its rich brown interior. With its long-wheelbase proportions, chrome detailing, and unmistakable Mercedes-Benz grille and three-pointed star, it carries the quiet authority that made these cars the choice of diplomats, executives, and heads of state.

A refined and usable modern classic, this 450 SEL offers comfort, presence, and that unmistakable V8 smoothness in equal measure.

This listing was written from information supplied by Ashley after meeting Nikhil the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Meet the owner

I’ve owned this 450 SEL specifically to use as a wedding car, as I felt the W116 has the right presence and elegance for special occasions.

During his time with the car, Nikhil has used it sparingly and primarily for special occasions. It has been maintained as a presentable and reliable classic, suited to the refined, elegant role it fulfilled.

Now ready to move on to its next custodian, it remains a lovely example of 1970s Mercedes luxury with presence to match.

Nikhil will be happy to answer any questions about the car in the comments section below.

Nikhil

Vehicle Owner

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Exterior
Interior
Mechanics
History
All Images

EXTERIOR VIDEO

Exterior

Finished in a classic period silver, this 450 SEL presents exactly as a W116 should — understated, elegant, and unmistakably solid.

Wheels and Tyres

The original-style Mercedes wheels remain fitted and suit the car perfectly. On closer inspection, there is some paint flaking visible on the wheels, consistent with age and use, but nothing structural or concerning.

The tyres looked in good visual condition at the time of our visit, with healthy tread visible all round.

Please take time to review the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior, wheels, and tyres so you can make your own assessment of their condition. Tyres are a key safety item, and you should consider replacing any that are cracked, perished, unevenly worn, or over 10 years old.

Bodywork

The body presents well, with straight panels throughout and no visible dents noted during our visit.

The shut lines appear even, and the doors, bonnet, and boot sit correctly. For a car of this era, it carries itself very well, reflecting careful use and maintenance over the years.

We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our high-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view of what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

Paint

The silver paintwork remains glossy and presents nicely overall.

There are some blemishes / blisters on the bonnet and small paint specks visible across the bodywork upon closer inspection. However, from a few steps back the finish still holds a strong shine, maintaining the car’s smart and presentable appearance.

The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these high-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

Glass and Trim

The glass appears clear and free from significant damage, while the chrome and brightwork, including the grille, window surrounds, and bumpers remain in good condition.

The trim elements complete the look of this classic S-Class, retaining the refined aesthetic that defines the W116.

The car carries itself with real presence, the long-wheelbase proportions and upright grille giving it that unmistakable late-1970s Mercedes authority.

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INTERIOR VIDEO

Interior

Inside, the 450 SEL delivers the classic Mercedes-Benz cabin experience of the late 1970s - substantial, well laid out, and designed with durability in mind.

Seats and Carpets

The brown cloth interior suits the silver exterior beautifully and maintains the car’s period-correct executive feel.

The seats remain structurally solid and comfortable, offering the kind of support and cushioning expected from an S-Class of this era. However, there are visible imperfections to note. The rear seat has a tear in the bolster, which is noticeable when opening the door, and there are also some rips present on the front seats.

The carpets appear tidy overall and in keeping with the car’s age and general condition.

Dashboard

The dashboard presents well, retaining its clean layout and classic Mercedes design.

Instrumentation is clear, and at the time of our visit, Nikhil confirmed that all controls and functions were in working order.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The steering wheel remains in good condition, showing light wear consistent with age but no obvious damage.

The automatic gear selector and surrounding trim also present well, maintaining the car’s refined and functional cabin appearance.

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO

Mechanics

Mechanically, this 450 SEL presents as a strong and usable classic, offering the smooth refinement and solid engineering that defined Mercedes-Benz during this era.

Engine and Gearbox

The 4.5-litre V8 sounds excellent, with no unusual noises noted in the accompanying videos. It idles smoothly and delivers power in the effortless, linear manner these engines are known for.

The automatic gearbox performs as it should, shifting cleanly and smoothly through the gears - there were no abnormal sounds or hesitations reported.

Suspension and Brakes

The suspension remains comfortable and composed, with no knocks or unwanted noises noted during our visit. It soaks up imperfections well, maintaining the relaxed ride quality expected of an S-Class.

Braking performance is strong and confidence-inspiring, with no issues reported.

The Drive

On the road, Nikhil reports it behaves exactly as you would hope from a well-maintained W116. It pulls smoothly, cruises comfortably, and delivers the refined experience that made the 450 SEL such a respected executive saloon in its day.

Electrics and Other

We didn't test everything during the visit, but Nikhil told us, to his knowledge, all electrics were working, with one exception: the driver’s side window regulator requires replacement, as the window is not currently functioning correctly.

Aside from this, no other electrical faults were reported at the time of visit.

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History and Paperwork

As with many classics of this era, the history file is modest but supports the car’s continued use and presentable condition.

While there is not an extensive documentation folder accompanying the car, it remains a strong and usable example of the W116. For buyers seeking a solid, characterful 450 SEL rather than a concours showpiece, this car still represents a compelling opportunity to own an iconic S-Class V8.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check.

This is an auction on behalf of a trade seller and normal auction rules apply, i.e. there is no warranty, no return policy and bids are binding with more info in our terms and conditions.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment of the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bids, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Service History

Date	Type	Mileage
04/12/2025	MOT	114,302
24/08/2016	MOT	114,029
09/09/2015	MOT	113,898
16/12/2005	MOT	11,140

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Key Details

Model450 SEL
TransmissionAutomatic
Reg. Date04/04/1978
CC4520
Mileage~114,342 on clock
ColourSilver
Interior ColourBrown
Chassis #11603322077844
Engine #11798622033685
MOTYes Exp 03.12.2026
MOT ExemptYes
Road Tax ExemptYes
HPi ClearYes - All Clear
Former Keepers4
LHD or RHDRHD
VisitedYes
Sale TypeTrade
Owned~9 months
Key FeatureKeen Reserve
Vehicle RegistrationYLE 829S
Driver’s SideRight
Fuel TypePetrol
Body TypeSaloon
Auction ID3413

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All Images

All Videos

Vehicle Location

Desford, Leicestershire

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Auction Closed

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This car didn't meet its reserve price and may soon be available as a private sale - please contact us for more information or let us know if you want to be notified when a similar car comes to market.

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Seller : NikhilT

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6 Comments

brianfountain

11 days ago

Hi any comments about the underneath? When filming the front door, could I see some corrosion on the sills?
Thanks Brian

NikhilT

Seller

brianfountain

11 days ago

Hi Brian. Hope you are well. Underneath is very good. No welding needed as far as we can see and according to its most recent MOT in December. There are some photos of underneath in the mechanical section. Looks good for sure!

trickydicky

23 days ago

Hello, have the minor defects and advisories from the 2025 MOT been rectified please?

NikhilT

Seller

trickydicky

23 days ago

No need. As they are so minor and just surface, I have let it be. If it was needed, I would have got it done. Cheers. Nik

Montysky

25 days ago

Does it have a sunroof please. Also is that an air con car and if so does it work? Many thanks. P

NikhilT

Seller

Montysky

25 days ago

Hi. Yes it does have a sunroof. Also yes it does have AirCon. Not ice cold but fans do blow nice and cold. Maybe a regas would benefit. Many thanks. Nik

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Vehicle Location

Desford, Leicestershire

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