Mercedes-Benz 300SEL 6.3 – 1968

Basic Information and History

An Icon on Wheels – The World's Fastest Limousine in Fully Functional Driving Condition

This 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300SEL 6.3 is a well-preserved and fully operational example of one of the brand's most legendary models – a car that combines understated elegance with raw power like few others. Often described as the world’s first "super sedan," this particular example lives up to that reputation.

A Dream Realized – About the Model

In the mid-1960s, design chief Paul Bracq penned the clean lines of the W108 and W109 series. The W109 quickly became Mercedes-Benz’s flagship – with a longer wheelbase, a more luxurious interior, and advanced air suspension. When Mercedes-Benz USA demanded more performance, lead engineer Erich Waxenberger took matters into his own hands: he dropped the massive 6.3-liter V8 from the Mercedes 600 (W100) into a 300SEL.

The result was a sensation: a four-door luxury limousine that could accelerate from 0–100 km/h in under 7 seconds and rival the most powerful American muscle cars on the drag strip – all while offering the comfort of a Grosse Mercedes. Only 6,526 examples were produced between 1968 and 1972.

Equipment and Options

About This Example – Chassis No. 74

This is an early 1968 model, originally sold in Salzburg, Austria, and richly equipped from the factory with:

1. Power windows and sunroof
2. Air conditioning (now converted to R134)
3. Electrically heated rear window
4. Tinted glass
5. Headrests front and rear
6. Seat belts (retractable) front and rear
7. Becker radio with two speakers
8. Limited-slip differential – a sought-after option

Condition

Mechanical Condition – Thoroughly Sorted

Under current ownership since 2011, the car has spent more time in the workshop than on the road – resulting in a vehicle that is mechanically, pneumatically, and electrically well-sorted.

Engine & Drivetrain:

1. Rebuilt 6.3-liter V8 from 1969 (not the original engine)
2. New solenoid for starter motor
3. New seals and gaskets in automatic transmission
4. Stainless steel exhaust system (slightly louder than stock)
5. New spark plugs (NGK BP5 ES) – ideal for city driving; other types recommended for Autobahn use

Fuel System:

1. Professionally rebuilt mechanical fuel injection pump by a specialist in Germany
2. New ball joints and bushings replaced worn linkages
3. New fuel hoses at pump and filter
4. New rubber mounts for fuel pump assembly

Air Suspension:

1. New air bellows front and rear
2. Rebuilt level control valves
3. New pressure sensor for low-pressure warning
4. New filters and seals

Braking System:

1. New seals and dust boots in all brake calipers
2. New brake shoes and pads
3. Resurfaced brake discs (within tolerance)
4. New brake hoses

Rear Axle & Driveshaft:

1. New center support bearing
2. New rear axle bearings
3. New bushings for trailing arms
4. New pinion seal

Miscellaneous:

1. New heater core, blower motor, and cabin air filter
2. New bulbs throughout the car (except one for the radio)
3. New turn signal stalk and a used distributor without play
4. New BOSCH fog lights with stone guards
5. Rear seat belts (retractable) added
6. Battery cutoff switch, upgraded battery cables
7. Custom holder for larger battery

Body & Cosmetics

The body was restored in the early 1990s in Germany with new front fenders and rear wheel arches. At the time, it was repainted in the original Bronze Braun Metallic (461), though not with the original two-tone scheme with Silber Grau Metallic (180). The paint retains good gloss but shows some cracking and bubbling. The left front jacking point needs to be welded with fresh metal.

The interior features gray velour with walnut wood trim. Upholstery and wood show some wear, especially on the driver’s seat and rear center armrest, but are generally serviceable. Some wood panels have peeling lacquer.

The vertical chrome strips on the rear edge of the door windows have cosmetic issues but are easy to replace (same as W108). The unique W109 chrome trim is in excellent condition.

Wheels & Tires

The car is currently fitted with Michelin XWX 215/70 VR 14 high-speed tires mounted on baroque alloy wheels, as seen in the photos. The original steel wheels, which are unique to the 6.3 (slightly stronger with cooling fins inside), are included.

Additional Parts Included

1. 4x original steel wheels
2. Unused original "6.3" badge (car currently displays "AUTOMATIC")
3. Complete set of flawless headlight lenses (not mounted due to gravel roads)
4. New exhaust manifold gaskets
5. New engine hood insulation pad

Consumables Included:

1. Oil filters (engine and transmission)
2. Two valve cover gaskets
3. Ignition coil, distributor cap, rotor, points, condenser
4. Thermostat for engine cooling
5. Belts for air compressor and alternator
6. Clips for side trim moldings

Remaining Issues

1. Minor oil leaks (engine and transmission)
2. Vacuum leak in central locking system
3. Speedometer wobbles when cold
4. Exhaust manifold gaskets need replacement (new ones included)
5. Engine hood insulation needs replacement (new one included)
6. Cabin heat cannot be fully turned off, although cables and controls appear correctly adjusted
7. Radiator is in good shape but has a small leak at the top between tank and core – needs soldering eventually

Summary

This is a Mercedes for those who appreciate character, engineering, and driving pleasure in a classic with impressive history and performance. With the right finishing touches and care, this example has the potential to become one of the more interesting 300SEL 6.3s on the market. At the same time, it's perfectly driveable today – especially on winding country roads where the engine’s massive power truly shines.

Swedish registration: AME746 – Inspection- and tax-exempt

Last known German registration: HS-H108

Odometer reading: approx. 51,600 km (total mileage unknown)