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1983 Mercedes-Benz 380 SEL V126 (Automatic / 4 Gears) RWD [1980-1985]

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Overview

1983 Mercedes-Benz 380 SEL V126 (Automatic / 4 Gears) RWD [1980-1985]

The 1983 Mercedes-Benz 380 SEL for the Swiss market represents one of the most refined limousines of the era, offering the luxury of extended chassis (Long Wheelbase) combined with the power of the V8 engine. This model, with a wheelbase of 3075 mm , offers rear passengers a royal space, making it the ideal vehicle for diplomatic or high-end business transportation. The 3.8-liter V8 engine is equipped with the Bosch K-Jetronic system and produces 197 hp , a figure specially tailored to the specifications of the Swiss market. With a 4-speed automatic gearbox that changes speeds indistinguishably and a build quality that sets global standards, the 380 SEL remains the symbol of Mercedes-Benz’s uncompromising engineering.

Model:S-Class SEL V126 phase-I
Production year:1983
Transmission:Automatic 4 speed
Starting price:€26,800
Engine size:3.8 L
Max torque:295 Nm
Cylinders alignment:V 8
Charge system:Gasoline
Displacement:3839 cm3
Max power:197 PS / 194 hp / 145 kW
Fuel type:Gasoline
Fuel consumption:13.0 L/100km combined
Extra-urban:9.4-11.3 L/100km
City:15.9-19.1 L/100km
Emission standard:N/A
Body style:Sedan
0-80 km/h:6.7 s
0-100 km/h:9.3 s
0-160 km/h:25.5 s
0-200 km/h:68.1 s
Top speed:206 km/h
Curb weight:1615 kg
Gross weight:2135 kg
Length:5135 mm
Width:1820 mm
Height:1440 mm
Fuel capacity:90 liters

Expert Assessment

Consumption
68%
Safety
80%
Performance
92%
Driveability
95%
Durability
95%
Maintenance
70%
Design
100%
Summary

Experts rate the 380 SEL as a vehicle that offers an excellent balance between chassis weight and V8 engine elasticity, especially in the post-1981 version which took advantage of Mercedes-Benz Energy Program upgrades. According to ProfessCars™ estimates, performance remains sufficiently dynamic with a 0-100 km/h acceleration for 9.3 seconds and a top speed of 206 km/h. Despite its size, the vehicle shows good highway efficiency thanks to refined aerodynamics, with an average combined consumption of 13.0 L/100km. The starting price in 1981 for this SEL model was around 52,400 Deutsche Mark (approx. €26,800). This variant is highly sought after due to the superior comfort of the seats and the legendary durability of the W126 chassis.

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