The 1976 Mercedes-Benz 450SEL represents the pinnacle of executive luxury from an era when engineering was paramount. This specific sedan carries a fascinating history, having been purchased new by the legendary Doris Day. It remained in her possession in California for over three decades before changing hands in 2008. Finished in a period-correct Topaz Brown, the car radiates a sophisticated and understated charm. Historic documentation confirms its celebrity pedigree, making it a unique find for any Mercedes-Benz collector.
Exterior Styling of the 1976 Mercedes-Benz 450SEL
The long-wheelbase body of this 1976 Mercedes-Benz 450SEL highlights the timeless lines of the W116 chassis. Its Topaz Brown paint is complemented by 14-inch steel wheels featuring polished covers with body-color centers. Classic quad headlights and a functional sunroof provide the car with a premium and authoritative road presence. Bright trim pieces accentuate the windows and bumpers, reflecting the high build quality of the mid-seventies. Despite minor past repairs, the sedan maintains a very honest and well-preserved aesthetic for its age.
Interior Appointments and Luxury Features
Inside the 1976 Mercedes-Benz 450SEL, the cabin features tan leather upholstery across the front buckets and rear bench. Wood trim accents the dashboard, which houses a Becker Mexico cassette stereo and automatic climate control. Power windows and cruise control were high-end options that showcased the forward-thinking nature of Mercedes-Benz design. While some upholstery wear is visible, the interior retains the heavy, tactile feel characteristic of German luxury. It offers a spacious and quiet environment that was designed for crossing continents in total comfort.
Chassis Maintenance and Recent Service
The current seller has invested in several important mechanical refreshes for this 1976 Mercedes-Benz 450SEL since purchasing it. They rebuilt the steering box to ensure the car tracks straight and provides proper feedback to the driver. Braking performance is handled by power-assisted discs, though the vacuum pump is currently noted as needing repair. The car rides on Yokohama Aegis thin-whitewall tires that maintain the original visual style of the car. These updates help preserve the smooth and composed ride quality for which the S-Class is famous.
Engine Performance and Technical Specifications
The 1976 Mercedes-Benz 450SEL is powered by a 4.5-liter M117 V-8 engine rated at 180 horsepower. It produces 220 lb-ft of torque, which is managed by a durable three-speed automatic transmission. Recent 2025 service included an oil change and a complete overhaul of the fueling system for better reliability. This work involved replacing the fuel pump, the accumulator, the tank screen, and all necessary hoses. These specifications ensure the V-8 delivers its power smoothly to the rear wheels during highway cruising.
Summary of a Celebrity Luxury Sedan
This 1976 Mercedes-Benz 450SEL is a rare blend of celebrity provenance and solid German engineering. Its history with Doris Day adds a layer of Hollywood glamour to an already respected luxury platform. The Topaz Brown exterior and tan leather interior serve as a perfect time capsule of seventies high-end style. While minor items like the climate control need attention, the recent mechanical work provides a solid foundation. This sedan is ready to be a standout participant at vintage car rallies or enthusiast gatherings.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
