1969 Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.3

Introduced in the US at Laguna Seca Raceway in 1968, the 300 SEL 6.3 combined the sophistication of the exclusive 600 with New Generation styling. Road & Track called it “an executive road racer” capable of 0–60 mph in 6.5 seconds.

In 1990, Mercedes-Benz enthusiast Dan Smith, seeking the finest 300 SEL 6.3 in the world, acquired the 6.3 now offered here. Marque expert MBI Motors in Portland, Oregon, delivered an award-winning, cost-no-object restoration in 1993 using many NOS parts no longer available today.

The original engine was rebuilt and tastefully upgraded for outright performance with 10:1 compression pistons, port-matched and angle-cut heads, AMG camshafts, and custom exhaust headers. Rear-wheel horsepower was significantly increased; the transmission and rear axle were rebuilt; the front suspension and steering box replaced; and 15" wheels fitted. The body was stripped and repainted; new glass, seals, and wood were installed; and the leather interior re-trimmed. All instrumentation was rebuilt and mileage reset to zero.

The exemplary 6.3 was subsequently bought by the consignor for his father’s birthday in 2013. It has been used sparingly and is reluctantly offered for auction. A marque expert, Star Motors of Endicott, New York, which located the car for the owner, recently updated it mechanically and cosmetically. Collectively, more than $200,000 was spent on the car by the two most recent owners, and the results speak for themselves, resulting in this very rare opportunity.