Used 1987 Mercedes-Benz 560-Class 560 SL

1987 Mercedes-Benz 560-Class

The 1987 Mercedes-Benz 560-Class represents a pinnacle of automotive engineering and luxury from the late 1980s. Belonging to the venerable W126 S-Class generation, the 560SEL (and its shorter wheelbase counterpart, the 560SEC) was the flagship model, embodying Mercedes-Benz's commitment to comfort, performance, and cutting-edge technology for its era. These cars were built to last, offering a refined driving experience and a level of build quality that continues to impress enthusiasts today.

Highlights

• Engine: At the heart of the 560-Class lies the robust and potent 5.6-liter M117 V8 engine. This fuel-injected powerplant produced a healthy output for its time, offering smooth acceleration and effortless cruising. Coupled with a responsive automatic transmission (typically a 4-speed), the 560-Class delivered a driving experience that was both powerful and exceptionally refined, capable of comfortably covering long distances.

• Safety Features: Mercedes-Benz was a leader in automotive safety, and the 560-Class was a testament to this.

  • Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): This groundbreaking technology, standard on the 560-Class, prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking. This allows the driver to maintain steering control and reduce stopping distances on slippery surfaces, significantly enhancing safety.
  • Driver's Side Airbag: While not universal in 1987, the 560-Class was among the pioneers to offer a driver's side airbag as standard. This inflatable cushion deploys in a frontal collision, providing crucial protection to the driver's head and chest.
  • Crumple Zones and Reinforced Passenger Cell: The W126 chassis was engineered with advanced safety principles, incorporating front and rear crumple zones designed to absorb impact energy in a collision, and a strong, rigid passenger cell to protect occupants.
  • Seatbelt Pretensioners: These devices automatically tighten the seatbelts at the moment of impact, effectively restraining occupants and reducing the risk of injury.

• Trims: The 1987 560-Class was primarily offered in two distinct body styles, each catering to different priorities:

  • 560SEL (Sedan): The undisputed king of luxury, the SEL featured a long wheelbase, providing significantly more rear legroom and an opulent cabin designed for chauffeur-driven comfort. This was the epitome of a flagship luxury sedan.
  • 560SEC (Coupe): The 560SEC offered a more sporting and elegant profile with its pillarless coupe design. While still luxurious and powerful, it prioritized style and a slightly more driver-focused experience, often appealing to those who preferred a more personal luxury car.

• Other Notable Aspects:

  • Exceptional Build Quality: The 560-Class is renowned for its robust construction and meticulous attention to detail. Materials used throughout the cabin, such as high-quality leather, genuine wood trim, and solid metal switchgear, contribute to a feeling of enduring luxury.
  • Comfort and Refinement: The suspension system was engineered for supreme comfort, effectively isolating occupants from road imperfections. The cabin was exceptionally quiet, further enhancing the sense of serenity.
  • Advanced Climate Control: The automatic climate control system maintained a consistent and comfortable cabin temperature, a sophisticated feature for its time.
  • Power Amenities: Almost every conceivable amenity was power-operated, including windows, mirrors, seats (often with memory functions), sunroof, and door locks.

What to Expect

Owning a 1987 Mercedes-Benz 560-Class today is an experience in appreciating classic luxury and enduring engineering.

• Ownership Experience: These vehicles offer a remarkably smooth and quiet ride, making them excellent companions for long journeys. The V8 engine provides ample power for confident merging and overtaking. The interior remains a sanctuary of comfort and understated luxury. They are often described as "effortless" to drive, with a commanding presence on the road.

• Maintenance: While incredibly well-built, these are complex luxury cars from the 1980s. Expect maintenance to be more involved and potentially more expensive than a modern economy car.

  • Routine Servicing: Regular oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks are essential. Mercedes-Benz dealership service was the norm when new, and while independent Mercedes-Benz specialists are readily available, parts and labor can still command a premium.
  • Age-Related Wear: Components like rubber hoses, seals, and suspension bushings will naturally wear over time and may require replacement. Electrical components, while generally reliable, can also be susceptible to age-related issues.
  • Preventative Maintenance is Key: Owners who adhere to a strict preventative maintenance schedule will find their 560-Class to be highly reliable. Addressing small issues before they become larger problems is crucial.

• Insurance: Insuring a classic luxury vehicle like the 560-Class will typically require specialized classic car insurance. These policies are often based on agreed-upon value rather than the car's depreciated market value. While potentially cheaper than insuring a modern luxury car with comparable performance, it's important to shop around and obtain quotes to understand the specific costs.

Potential Considerations

While the 560-Class is a highly desirable classic, potential buyers should be aware of certain aspects:

• Complexity of Systems: The advanced (for its time) technology, from the climate control to the power accessories, means there are more potential points of failure compared to simpler vehicles. Diagnosis and repair of these systems may require specialized knowledge.
• Availability of Parts: While many common wear items are still available, certain specific or discontinued parts might be more challenging to source, potentially requiring a search through specialist suppliers or the used market.
• Fuel Economy: As expected from a large V8 engine from this era, fuel economy is not a strong suit. Owners should be prepared for significantly lower miles per gallon compared to modern vehicles.
• Rust: Like any older car, the 560-Class can be susceptible to rust, particularly in areas exposed to road salt and moisture. Thorough inspection of the chassis, wheel arches, and rocker panels is recommended.
• "Needs TLC": Many examples on the market may require some level of refurbishment or ongoing attention to maintain their pristine condition. Thoroughly assessing the condition of any vehicle before purchase is paramount.

Overall Summary

The 1987 Mercedes-Benz 560-Class is a distinguished and exceptionally capable luxury automobile that continues to hold its appeal. It represents the zenith of the W126 S-Class generation, offering a harmonious blend of V8 power, supreme comfort, and a level of build quality that has made it a benchmark for decades. While it demands diligent maintenance and a understanding of its mechanical complexity, the ownership experience is immensely rewarding for those who appreciate timeless design, unparalleled refinement, and the enduring legacy of Mercedes-Benz engineering. It remains a true classic, offering a taste of automotive excellence from a bygone era.