Mercedes 560 Sel Auto (1987)
1987 Mercedes 560 Sel Auto
CarHunch analysed 190 real MOT records for the 1987 Mercedes 560 Sel Auto. This breakdown of actual test outcomes — pass rates, defect profiles, mileage data — isn't published anywhere else.
Only 30% of these 1987 Mercedes 560 SELs pass their MOT first time, against an 80% UK average—a stark gap that reflects the age and complexity of these W126-generation classics. The petrol models show a 0% first-time pass rate across 186 vehicles, which is genuinely alarming, though it's worth noting that zero dangerous defects have been recorded, suggesting failures are mostly correctable rather than catastrophic.
These cars are running at an average of 157,000 miles, which is substantial for a 37-year-old vehicle, yet they rack up almost no recorded failures or advisories per test—a paradox explained by the fact that most simply aren't passing initial inspection. If you're serious about one of these icons, budget heavily for pre-purchase inspection by a Mercedes specialist and expect repeated MOT visits; this isn't a Sunday drive, it's a restoration commitment.
What to check before buying a 1987 Mercedes 560 Sel Auto
Practical pre-purchase checks for this age and model.
- 📋 Check the full MOT history. Look for recurring advisories — slow-building issues like corrosion or brake wear patterns show up years before they become failures. Enter the reg below for a full AI analysis.
- 🔍 Inspect for corrosion in person. Brake pipes, sills, subframes, and chassis legs. Surface rust is normal at this age; structural rust is a serious problem that's expensive to fix and can fail an MOT.
- 🛞 Check tyres and brakes. The most common advisory items at this age. Budget for replacement if they're near the limit — factor this into your offer price.
- 📄 Run an HPI check. The MOT history won't show outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen status — an HPI check will.
Before you buy a Mercedes 560 Sel Auto
MOT history is one piece of the puzzle. These checks can reveal what CarHunch can't.
CarHunch may earn a small commission if you buy via these links — at no extra cost to you.
Pass Rate by Fuel Type
| Fuel type | Vehicles | Pass rate | Avg failures |
|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol (98%) | 186 | 0% | 0 |
| LPG (1%) | 2 | 0% | 0 |
| Diesel (1%) | 1 | 0% | 0 |
| Other (1%) | 1 | 50% | 1 |
MOT History Averages
Found a specific Mercedes 560 Sel Auto?
Enter the reg to see its individual MOT history, AI Hunches, and how it compares to this cohort.