450 SEL (special protection version)

Combustion principle:
four-stroke petrol (with manifold injection)
Configuration:
front, longitudinal; vertical
Engine type:
M 117 E 45 / 117.983, from 11.1975: 117.986
Number of cylinders / arrangement:
8 / 90° V
Bore x Stroke:
92 x 85 mm
Total displacement:
4520 cc (tax classification: 4489 cc)
Compression ratio:
8.8
Rated output:
225 hp / 165 kW at 5000 rpm;~from 11.1975: 217 hp / 165 kW at 5000 rpm;~from 04.78: 225 hp / 165 kW at 5000 rpm
Rated torque:
38.5 mkg at 3000 rpm; from 11.1975: 36.7 mkg at 3250 rpm;~from 04.1978: 37.5 mkg at 3250 rpm
Number of valves / arrangement:
1 intake, 1 exhaust / overhead
Valve operation:
1 overhead camshaft per cylinder bank
Camshaft drive:
double roller chain
Fuel system:
manifold injection, electronically controlled (Bosch D-Jetronic);~from 11.1975 mechanically controlled (Bosch K-Jetronic)
Fuel tank: position / capacity:
above the rear axle / 82 l

Frame design:
steel unit body
Front-wheel suspension:
double wishbone
Rear-wheel suspension:
semi-trailing arm axle (hydropneumatic level control optional)
Front springs:
coil springs, supplementary rubber suspension, torsion bar stabiliser
Rear springs:
coil springs, hydropneumatic spring struts, torsion bar stabiliser
Shock absorber front/rear:
telescopic shock absorbers
Steering:
recirculating-ball power steering
Brake system (foot brake):
hydraulic dual-circuit brake system with vacuum booster, antilock system optional from 12.1978; disc brakes front (internally ventilated) and rear
Parking brake (hand brake):
mechanical (foot-operated), acting on rear wheels
Wheels:
light-alloy wheels
Wheel rims:
6 1/2 J x 14 H 2-B
Tires:
215/70 VR 14
Driven wheels:
rear wheels
Drivetrain:
divided cardan shaft