About the 300SE
The 300SE is an S-Class of the W126 range (1980-1991), a car that many enthusiasts regard as the last of the classic ‘over engineered’ Mercedes. Being a 1986 model, it is the first year of the updated Series 2 model, which featured improved engines. It does not have the interior upgrade, as that did not happen until 1988. The 300SE was the entry level S class in most markets (including Australia), with the 260SE mostly focused on markets with punitive taxes for engines over 2.8l. For more information about the W126 in Australia, see this post.
The 300SE is a bit of a hidden gem in the W126 range. Livelier and better to drive than the 420SEL, but half the cost.
About this car
I owned this car from January 2017 to January 2023. I bought it to be my everyday driver. The 450SLC has in some ways filled this role since I purchased it in 2003, but for nearly all of that time I used public transport for commuting (or had an underground parking garage). Circumstances changed and I needed a car that could fit 3 child seats across the back. W126’s are still very reasonably priced and fit these requirements.
This 300SE is an entry level model, without many options. This is perfect for my needs for driving the kids around. Upholstery is MB-TEX, and there is no sunroof orpower seats to go wrong. It does have automatic climate control, but this is how they were all ordered by Mercedes Australia unfortunately. And being a 1986 it can be registered as a classic car, which I would do about four years into my ownership.
The car was purchased from the next suburb to mine and came out of long term ownership. The Signal red paintwork is a nice change from the mostly champagne or white W126’s that are seen around. I have since removed the chrome wheel arch trims that were installed on the car at purchase. I put about 16,000km on the car over my six years of ownership.
Option codes
| Option Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 233 | Foglamp wiring for F/CH/AUS/S/N |
| 240 | Outside temperature indicator |
| 259 | Becker Radio Grand Prix Cassette Stereo Electronic |
| 286 | Luggage nets on front seat backrests |
| 420 | Automatic Transmission (Floor Shift) |
| 430 | Headrests in the rear |
| 440 | Tempomat (Cruise Control) |
| 470 | Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) |
| 480 | Self Leveling Suspension |
| 507 | Outside rear view mirror left and right heated (Electric adjustment Left) |
| 531 | Automatic Antenna |
| 543 | Sun Visors with vanity mirrors, illuminated |
| 551 | Anti-Theft / Break in warning system |
| 574 | 570: Folding arm rest 571: Front seat left, with height adjustment RHD |
| 588 | 581: Automatic climate control 584: Electric window lifters, front and rear |
| 599 | Heat Insulated glass, side and rear window panes, windshield clear |
| 615 | 611: Courtesy lamps, front and rear doors 613: Lamp unit, Asymmetrical, LH Traffic |
| 625 | Version for Australia |
| 677 | Tropical battery |
| 731 | Wood trim, burred walnut root |
| 806 | Model year 1986 |
| 812 | Rear-mounted loudspeakers |
| 877 | Reading lamp in the rear |
