1988 Mercedes-Benz 560 SEL - Formerly the Property of King Hussein and Queen Noor of Jordan

"The Mercedes-Benz S-Class: recognised all over the world as the ultimate large saloon for long journeys. Its concept, one of outstanding quality in every aspect, is based on the confidence that demanding owners have in Mercedes-Benz. Superb, proven engineering in a long-distance saloon, consistent through and through. Setting the standards and pointing the way to the future" Mercedes-Benz S-Class Brochure

Meaning 'Sonderklasse' or 'Special Class' the W126 model was the second generation Mercedes-Benz to wear the S-Class badge. With the introduction of the new model came technological advancements in safety, including airbags, pre-determined front and rear crumple zones, electronically controlled belt tensioners and the Mercedes safety steering system with a deformable steering column and padded steering wheel and boss. Nine different S-class models were available to choose from, with the entry level 260SE 6-cylinde2.6-litrere engine through to the most powerful 560SE with a 5.6 litre V8 engine capable of 300 bhp. 24 body colours were available along with 24 interior options including fabric, velours and leather.

Ordered new and formerly the property of the late King Hussein of Jordan and his wife Her Majesty Queen Noor Al Hussein. His Majesty King Hussein bin Talal is regarded as the father of modern Jordan and will always be remembered as a leader who guided his country through strife and turmoil to become an oasis of peace, stability, and moderation in the Middle East.

This particular, right-hand drive, Mercedes-Benz 560 SEL is finished in Pearl Grey with a black leather interior and was retained at their private estate in Ascot for their use on royal duties whilst here in the UK. Fitted as standard the car has heated and electronically controlled front seats, its original Becker Mexico CD 'Autoradio' system, a telephone, and the glovebox conceals a microphone connected to an exterior speaker hidden in the grille. For protection, as one might expect, this car is armoured to 'B4 level' which includes thicker glass all round, strengthened roof and floor and armour plating elsewhere on the car. As a result, the car is no lightweight tipping the scales at around four tons, and back in 1988 would have cost in excess of £200,000.

The original service book shows eight stamps, the first of which is a pre-delivery inspection on 18th December 1987 at the Mercedes-Benz factory in Sindelfingen. The majority of the upkeep of the car was then carried out at the Whitestone Capital Limited - the personal garage of His Royal Majesty.

The current recorded mileage is 25,990 miles and this fabulous piece of automotive engineering is supplied with a UK V5c, its original book pack containing drivers manual & service book, original Mercedes-Benz S-Class brochures and sundry invoices and MoT certificates. This low mileage 560SEL was constructed to offer the maximum protection to its Royal occupants in a discreet and rapid package and is still perfectly able to fulfill those duties today. There may be a prospective purchaser who feels those qualities would be relevant to their particular lifestyle, and this carefully constructed Mercedes luxury saloon can transport VIPs and executives swiftly and silently with total peace of mind.