The 500SE was never sold in the US, but should make for a cool package. In this W126 generation of S-Class, “SE” vs. “SEL” meant short vs. long wheelbase. The US market got the 380SE variant, which used a smaller-displacement V8. That car makes a fine cruiser, but this 500SE should feel pretty good with about 300 pound-feet of torque.
This car was supposedly owned by the German Consulate in San Francisco at one time, which might explain what this grey-market beauty is doing here. We’ll call it “green market”, though, given the delightfully outdated color scheme. The green-dominated interior even has cloth, which is VERY European.
The car has low mileage for a W126 and appears to be in excellent shape, although the seller includes more random, artsy shots than useful closeups. $5,000 seems pretty reasonable for something that should be both fun to drive and a true rarity in the US. We’d think about sourcing stock wheels to complete the look, but we like the Bilstein/H&R combo.
Click for Craigslist ad
Los Angeles, CA
$5,000
Simply put, this is a timeless, classic design. Keep in mind the short wheelbase S-Class is still no small car.
These taillights are an iconic part of 80s styling.
Here’s a closer view of the profile.
Here’s the only decent view of the interior, complete with green velour.
And here’s the 5.0-liter, SOHC V8.
Cool pic!
And another.
Ad text:
Hello! After four blissful years, we’re selling our classic willow green 1982 Mercedes cruiser. This car is one of a kind in every way — she’s a rare German model, she was previously owned by the German Consulate of San Francisco, the last owner was a car collector who updated her to drive like a hot rod, and she’s in simply amazing shape. Read on for the details:
1982 Mercedes Benz 500SE.
142,000 miles.
Original “willow green” exterior, which is sort of a silvery avocado.
Luxurious forest green interior in a corduroy-esque material.
Large electric sunroof.
Power windows.
Automatic transmission.
Huge trunk, perfect for storing all your gear.
Runs on regular gas (not diesel).
Federalized to US safety + emission standards.
Engine is a 5.0 liter SOHC all alloy V8 that puts out more power than the comparable American model.
Wheels are a BBS style made by Rial.
The previous owner installed Bilstein struts + shocks, plus H&R springs. Why? To make it run like a cheetah, low to the ground and full of power.
The paint, chrome, and glass are generally in great condition.
We’re selling this car for a steal of a deal because we just moved to NYC and didn’t have time to sell her before we left. We’ve recently done a bunch of work, all of which you’ll get to enjoy as you cruise:
New brake pads, sensors, and calipers.
New tires.
Redone auto lock vacuum.
Front suspension was also recently redone.
Control rod and timing chain recently serviced.
Smog check passed June 2014.
Willow (as we fondly call her) has been our only vehicle since 2011. We’ve driven her everywhere, from Yosemite, to wine country, to the Marin Headlands and beyond. She always performs like a champ, and whenever we had any issues, we fixed them immediately.
If you’d like more images or any more information, please be in touch. Only serious inquiries, please!
Video walkthrough: http://youtu.be/KQVMm0es9sI