Used Mercedes 450

The Mercedes 450 SEL 6.9 was the high performance version of the W116 S-Class series luxury sedan. The S-Class series represented Mercedes Benz’s flagship series, or its most highly flaunted luxury sedans. Mercedes Benz definitely pulls out all the stops for cars in this series. Hence, they usually contain technological and engineering innovations. S-Class models are usually very advanced when they first come out. In addition, due to a commitment to build quality, durability, and good styling, these cars also quickly become classics, retaining their stature over time. With its own specialized assembly line in Stuttgart, it was the first model to be fitted with a hydropneumatic self-leveling suspension system. Basically, instead of using shock absorbers and springs, this technology employed hydraulic suspension components. This improved the comfort of the ride and the used Mercedes 450’s handling immensely, making it, in the words of a journalist, “handle like a Mini”. The Mercedes 450 SEL 6.9 also featured a W3B 050 three-speed automatic transmission, and a limited slip differential that improved traction on dry pavement as well as in inclement weather. The Mercedes 450 SEL 6.9 had a factory-rated top speed of 140 mph or 225 kph, although some reporters have seen speeds of 150 mph or 241 kph. The model also managed to average 72 mph or 116 kph on an arduous forty lap run on the Road Atlanta grand prix race track in Georgia. This is a very difficult challenge, even for purpose-built racecars. Still, the 450 SEL 6.9 managed it without encountering any mechanical problems. The 6.9 was a truly powerful automobile, and deserves all the accolades it received upon being released, even being touted as “the greatest Mercedes Benz ever built”. Compared to other cars in its class, such as a Rolls-Royce or full-sized Cadillacs, the Mercedes 450 has a larger interior, and is faster, and more powerful. Its wide array of safety and luxury features also put it on good competing terms. If it lost out on any criterion, it would be on opulence; Rolls-Royce and Cadillac models are undeniably more luxurious in terms of interior design. It was also quite a bit more expensive than other contemporary luxury cars. However, in terms of sheer performance, features, and looks, the Mercedes 450 SEL 6.9 definitely edges out its contemporaries for the title of best luxury sedan. Especially for those whom price is no object, the Mercedes 450 is undeniably the best choice.