Floating City: 1975 Mercedes-Benz 450 SEL W116

The W116 chassis Mercedes-Benz S-Class was presented to the public in September of 1972 with inline-6 and optional V8 powerplants.  It was a huge car in long wheelbase variant and tipped the scales at a healthy 3900 lbs, but is known for a smooth ride and rugged build quality.  If you are a Californian and have to deal with the state's draconian emissions test requirements, stick to the 1975 and earlier cars -- like this 1975 Mercedes-Benz 450 SEL offered for $3,000 in Marina del Rey, CA via craigslist.

5k: Old Faithful: 1980 Mercedes-Benz 450 SEL W116

The W116 generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class is one of those old stalwarts of the industry that won't let the public down.  The W116 is tough and reliable icon in the same vein as Gotham City's Batman, Red Meat's Milkman Dan or Toronto's Rob Ford.  Like an old high school football buddy, it'll be there when you need it, to fight crime, scare your neighbors with a pig mask/cattle prod or help you dispose of a body.  Find this 1980 Mercedes-Benz 450 SEL offered for $3,500 in Auburn, CA via craigslist.