This Immaculate Vintage Mercedes Q-Ship Reminds Us Why It’s One of Benz’s Coolest Cars In the Past 50 Years
Fifty years after its debut, the W116-based [[Mercedes-Benz 450SEL 6.9]] remains a landmark full-size sedan that secretly combined luxury with near-supercar performance. Borrowing the massive [[M100 V8]] from Mercedes’ flagship limousine and refined on the track via the famous [[Red Pig]] test car, the 6.9 introduced innovations like Bosch electronic ABS and Citroën-derived hydropneumatic self‑leveling suspension that presaged modern active systems. The car’s dry‑sump lubrication, short‑ratio steering, limited‑slip differential and stout brakes let a nearly 4,400‑pound S‑Class sprint and handle remarkably well for its size, earning praise from critics and a place in underground endurance lore such as the [[Cannonball Run]]. Today well‑preserved examples surfacing on sites like [[BringATrailer]] highlight both its engineering boldness and enduring collector appeal. Values and cultural cachet have steadily risen among enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.