
1988 Mercedes-Benz 420SEL Base
Fully remote pickup/dropoff w/ DEDICATED PARKING SPOT for your convenience! "[The W126-series] S-Class was the brand's iconic '80s flagship sedan. Bankers and doctors drove them, and their build quality was second to none. Many call the W126 the last great S-Class" (from Bring-a-Trailer)..... "Since debuting in 1979, the W126 S-Class was the premier and quintessential full-size luxury sedan of the 1980s. Not only was it a top choice among oligarchs, world leaders, and celebrities alike, the W126 was the ultimate summation of Mercedes-Benz quest to make the best car in the world through innovation, technology, safety, and mechanical excellence, setting the yardstick for every other car manufacturer to follow" (from Hagerty). That's from the experts. I've heard many others describe this car as a "tank." Its build quality, road presence, design and engineering is second-to-none. This particular model, the 420SEL, was new for 1986 and benefited from lots of updates to the line, including a more modernized engine, transmission, and interior and exterior. It's the W126, just perfected. The "L" denotes the a longer wheelbase, which gives back seat passengers absurd room and comfort. This big car offers big luxury, from the soft but firm suspension to the high-quality interior with cold A/C. The car starts right up, moves well, shifts well, and is comfortable and easy to drive. It keeps up perfectly in modern traffic. This car has no serious flaws and the car is fully serviced, sorted and reliable. While this car is definitely a classic, there's no reason you need a special occasion to rent it--isn't this a way-cooler alternative than that other 4-door sedan you're looking at? While this car is well-maintained and in excellent condition, it is still 35 years old. There are some scratches, scuffs and other minor flaws expected from a car of this age. I ask that you drive this car reasonably and do not abuse it. Please understand that it will not be flawless like a new car, and there is a greater chance of something going wrong. FOR EVENT RENTALS ONLY: Price assumes one full day (12 hours) including a driver with the car at your location (assumes up to 25-mile distance from cars' location). Please contact me. The rental price may vary due to the driving distance, setting, amount of time you need the vehicle, and amount of time you need the driver. Notable features: -multi-point fuel injection -4-speed automatic transmission -power steering, windows, locks and 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS -driver-side airbag -Power-adjustable front seats -tilt steering column -automatic climate control w/ A/C -cruise control -AM/FM stereo w/ CD player -full-size spare tire Factory Specifications: Engine: 16-Valve 4.2L V8 (256 CID) Power: 201 hp (@ 5200rpm) Torque: 228 lb-ft (at 3600 rpm) 0-60 mph: 9.8 sec. Top Speed: 137 mph Fuel tank capacity: 23.8 gal. Length: 208.1 inches Wheelbase: 121.1 inches (1 inch longer than my '79 Lincoln Continental Mark V!) Curb weight: 3740 Base price when new: $58,150
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Availability
October 2026
November 2026
Approximate location
Los Angeles, CA

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