The Mercedes-Benz W126 S-Class, especially models like the 1985 500SEL, holds a special place in automotive history. For enthusiasts and those in the know, these cars represent a golden era of luxury and engineering. They are sophisticated enough to deliver a genuinely enjoyable driving experience, yet retain a level of analog simplicity that avoids the pitfalls of overly complex modern technology. This balance makes them remarkably user-friendly, even for those of us who are not professional mechanics. The sheer logic in their design, as one owner described, makes them fit together like a “Chinese puzzle,” accessible even to the amateur wrench turner.
Front view of a 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500SEL showcasing its iconic W126 design, a symbol of 80s luxury.
The 1985 model year is particularly noteworthy for the 500SEL as it marked the introduction of standard driver-side airbags and anti-lock brakes, significant safety advancements for the time. A pristine 1985 500SEL, like the example previously listed in Fort Worth, Texas, showcases not only these features but also the potential for unique, desirable options. While US-market cars had fewer customization choices compared to their European counterparts, some hidden gems made their way stateside, adding to the allure for collectors and enthusiasts today.
Performance and the US-Spec 500SEL Engine
Purists often debate the merits of US-specification versus Euro-spec Mercedes-Benz models. When it comes to the 1985 Benz 500SEL, the US versions did face certain compromises. To meet Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, they were built slightly heavier, and to comply with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) emissions standards, their performance was somewhat tamed. The US-spec 5.0-liter M117 V8 engine in the 500SEL produced a modest 184 horsepower. However, its 247 lb/ft of torque still provided respectable acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in the low to mid 8-second range and reaching a top speed exceeding 134 mph – perfectly adequate for comfortable cruising in its era.
Side profile of a 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500SEL emphasizing its elegant lines and the classic W126 silhouette.
In contrast, the Euro-spec 5.0-liter and the later 5.6-liter M117 engines boasted significantly quicker 0-60 mph times (6.5-7.2 seconds) and higher top speeds approaching 150 mph. Despite the power difference, the US-spec 1985 Benz 500SEL remains a refined and capable grand tourer. For many, the overall condition and desirable options of a specific car outweigh the nuances of engine specifications, especially when considering these vehicles as classic cruisers rather than outright performance machines.
Addressing Common Cosmetic Concerns and Upgrades
While the W126 design is inherently elegant, some aspects of the US-market versions are frequently targeted for improvement by enthusiasts. One common point of contention is the US-spec headlights. The W126 was designed with aerodynamics in mind, and the sealed-beam headlights mandated in the US market at the time can appear somewhat bulky and detract from the car’s sleek front end. Upgrading to European-style headlights is a popular modification, costing around $500 for a DIY project, and dramatically enhances the car’s visual appeal.
A close-up of the US-spec headlights on a 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500SEL, often replaced with European headlights for aesthetic reasons.
Another area often addressed is the wheels. The factory 14-inch wheels on the 1985 Benz 500SEL can appear undersized by modern standards, and tire selection in this size is limited. Purists often favor OEM-style 15-inch “bundt” alloy wheels, readily available on the used market. Alternatively, 16-inch wheels, such as the Tire Rack ASA 8-hole style or later W126 16-hole alloys, offer a more contemporary look and improved tire choices. These upgrades not only enhance handling but also better fill the wheel wells, improving the car’s stance. While some consider European bumpers a worthwhile aesthetic upgrade, it can be a more involved and costly modification.
Interior Refinements and the Rare Four-Place Seating Option
The interior of a 1985 Benz 500SEL is a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to luxury and quality. The burled walnut wood trim exudes sophistication, and many enthusiasts appreciate the classic black dashboards and steering wheels. Cream beige leather interiors, often paired with metallic Cabernet paintwork, create a timeless and elegant cabin ambiance. The build quality and materials used ensure that even with age, these interiors can remain in excellent condition, especially in lower mileage examples.
Interior view of a 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500SEL highlighting the burled walnut wood trim, black dashboard, and cream beige leather.
The front seats in this particular 1985 500SEL feature the desirable sport seat option. These seats are more sculpted and offer enhanced bolstering compared to the standard “barcalounger” seats found in many W126 sedans, though they were standard in the SEC coupes. Crucially, they retain the 500SEL’s standard seat heaters, a luxurious touch appreciated by many. The presence of the original Becker stereo further enhances the car’s vintage appeal, and these units can even be modified to accommodate modern iPod connections, blending classic aesthetics with contemporary convenience.
However, the truly exceptional feature of some 1985 Benz 500SEL models, and a highlight of the example discussed, is the rare “four-place seating” option. This transformed the rear passenger area into an “executive suite,” replacing the standard bench seat with two individual, heated, and reclining seats. The absence of a center rear seat was intentional, creating space for business accoutrements of the era, like briefcase phones or portable fax machines. This option is remarkably uncommon, and finding a W126 with four-place seating is a treat for Mercedes-Benz aficionados. Even rarer variations included velour or buffalo leather upholstery for this exclusive seating arrangement, further elevating the luxury quotient.
The exceptional four-place rear seating option in a 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500SEL, showcasing individual heated and reclining seats for ultimate passenger comfort.
Detail of the reclining feature of the executive rear seats in a 1985 Benz 500SEL, emphasizing the luxury and bespoke nature of this rare option.
A Lasting Legacy of Reliability and Timeless Design
While the W126 Mercedes-Benz may not reach the stratospheric collectible status of the Gullwing, particularly the sedan variants given the production numbers exceeding 800,000, they offer something arguably more valuable: enduring usability and reliability. Even decades after the last W126 rolled off the production line, a well-maintained example, whether gasoline or diesel powered, can serve as a dependable daily driver. Stories of these cars reaching mileage figures well beyond 400,000 miles without major engine rebuilds are not uncommon. With regular maintenance, these cars are built to last. The 1985 Benz 500SEL, and the W126 S-Class in general, represents a blend of robust engineering, timeless design, and understated luxury that continues to captivate car enthusiasts today, not just as collectibles, but as genuinely rewarding vehicles to own and drive.
