When it comes to Michael Jackson, the “King of Pop” known for his groundbreaking contributions to music, few would be surprised to hear about his deep passion for luxury and style. Beyond his incredible career and the millions of fans worldwide, Jackson’s love for opulent automobiles was one of the many aspects of his lifestyle that reflected his larger-than-life persona. Among the numerous vehicles he owned, the 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL stood out as his all-time favorite, a car he drove for years. In this article, we explore why the Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL became the icon of Jackson’s car collection and why it continues to be a timeless classic.

The 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL: Michael Jackson’s Favorite

Michael Jackson’s extensive car collection was as eclectic as his music career. Among the 75 vehicles he owned, the 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL was his go-to ride. With its sleek design, powerful performance, and luxurious features, this flagship vehicle stood as a testament to Jackson’s refined taste. The W126 model of the 500 SEL, the last year it was available in the U.S., was renowned for its timeless style and robust engineering, making it a standout in both the 1980s and today.

Despite owning numerous other high-end cars, Jackson’s affection for the 500 SEL was unparalleled. He even made it his daily driver, a sentiment that only adds to the allure of this already fascinating car.

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Watch this video to take a closer look at Michael Jackson’s Mercedes SEL 500 and its luxurious features!

Design and Features of the 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL

The Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL from 1985 was a masterpiece of automotive design. With its graceful lines, rounded corners, and perfectly sculpted curves, the car embodied luxury and sophistication. Jackson, who was known for his attention to detail, could certainly appreciate the elegance of this vehicle. The car’s exterior was a symbol of understated power and refinement, which suited Jackson’s personal style, from his soft voice to his iconic performances.

Inside, the 500 SEL was equally impressive. The interior featured a spacious design with arm-backed seats, offering both luxury and comfort. The car boasted high-quality leather upholstery and a 4-spoke steering wheel, a feature that spoke to the car’s pedigree. For a man who spent long hours on the road, comfort and class were paramount, and the 500 SEL delivered on both fronts.

The Powertrain: Performance that Impressed Michael Jackson

Of course, performance was equally important in making the 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL stand out. Under the hood, the car was powered by a 5.0-liter V8 engine that delivered 302 horsepower in Jackson’s version of the car—a significant upgrade compared to the 228 horsepower in European models. The U.S. version of the 500 SEL was originally tuned to provide 184 horsepower, but Jackson’s personal car had been enhanced, making it a high-performance machine with enough power to match its sleek appearance.

The car’s powertrain was paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, and its innovative design made it incredibly nimble for a vehicle of its size. The 500 SEL also had disc brakes on all four wheels, adding to its stability and control. With alloy wheels and reduced drag, it was more aerodynamic than its predecessors, ensuring a smooth ride regardless of the terrain. It’s no wonder that Jackson loved driving this car—it offered not only luxury but also the thrill of a powerful engine.

Michael Jackson’s Connection to the 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL

Michael Jackson’s bond with the 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL wasn’t just about performance and luxury—it was personal. The King of Pop kept the car in his collection for years, and it became a part of his life in a way that few other vehicles did. Jackson’s deep connection with this car was clear when it became his go-to choice for daily driving. However, as his fame skyrocketed and his concerns about privacy increased, Jackson found it increasingly difficult to drive in public. He eventually limited his driving to his sprawling Neverland Ranch in California, where the 500 SEL continued to accompany him.

What’s perhaps even more interesting is how the car ended up being part of Jackson’s personal history. He later gifted the 500 SEL to his aunt for her birthday, a gesture that demonstrated the sentimental value the car held for him. Over time, the car was customized with a personalized license plate reading “TKS MKL,” making it even more of a personal treasure.

The 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL Today

After Jackson’s passing, the 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL continued to live on, far beyond its original context. Following its time with Jackson and his aunt, the car was auctioned off and now resides at the Star Cars Museum in Tennessee, where it remains a key part of their impressive collection of iconic vehicles. As one of Jackson’s favorites, it’s no surprise that this car is now considered a coveted item among collectors.

Despite being over three decades old, the 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL continues to draw attention and admiration from both automotive enthusiasts and fans of the late pop icon. The car’s place in Jackson’s legacy makes it a living artifact, one that symbolizes his taste, his era, and his undeniable influence on culture.

Conclusion: The Legacy of Michael Jackson’s Car Collection

Michael Jackson’s collection of cars spoke volumes about his larger-than-life persona, and his 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL was undoubtedly one of his most beloved vehicles. With its stunning design, impressive performance, and undeniable connection to the King of Pop, the car continues to capture the imagination of those who remember Jackson as more than just a performer but a trendsetter in many aspects of life.

Jackson’s Mercedes 500 SEL stands as a testament to his exceptional taste in automobiles, embodying the timeless combination of elegance, power, and comfort. As it continues to sit proudly in the Star Cars Museum, the car serves as a lasting reminder of the pop legend’s personal touch on everything he loved—whether it was his music, his fashion, or, as in this case, his choice of ride. The 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 SEL was more than just a car; it was Michael Jackson’s own piece of automotive history, forever tied to his name and legacy.

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Watch this video to compare the car collections of Michael Jackson and Prince, two iconic legends with unique tastes!