Highlights

Very tidy late-model W111 with 118bhp 2.3L straight six
RHD car with only six registered keepers
£7,600 spent on mechanical work since December 2023
Kept in heated, dry storage since bought in 2023
Recent work to cooling system, carburettor, brakes and suspension
Parts and tools for the valve stem seal job included
Practical and stylish four-seat sedan

The Appeal

Bela Barienyi made it exceptionally safe, but it was Friedrich Gieger who secured the W111's enduring appeal with his beautifully detailed bodywork, incorporating timeless features like the stacked headlights and the transatlantic 'Heckfloss' styling that gave the car its nickname. Thanks to their reliability and roominess, the rare survivors make surprisingly practical classics.

The seller bought this attractive mid-blue 230S in late 2023 and says he has since invested over £7,600 maintaining and improving it. It has a desirable specification, including a 118 bhp 2.3L straight-six engine and a relaxed 4-speed automatic gearbox, a combination that is ideal for long-distance cruising. Maintenance has included the radiator, carburettor, intake system, alternator, engine mounts, tyres, brakes and suspension components.

Externally, the car is described as honest, with a few small dings to the passenger door, a stone chip between the grille and headlamp, and some age-related wear to the chrome and paintwork that would benefit from a polish. We're informed there is a small puff of blue smoke after idling when hot and then pulling away, which the owner believes is likely due to worn valve stem seals. The required parts and tools are included in the boot. For a buyer willing to do a little initial work, this is a much-improved and nicely presented classic Benz.

The seller says:

“It's the ultimate cruiser. You can't drive this car anywhere without a wave, a beep, or a conversation sparking. It's beautiful, just look at it, and it is so comfy to drive; it's like a pillow. Big old blue pillow.”

Key Information

Mileage: 48,208 miles indicated (odometer reading reported as correct)
Country of registration: United Kingdom
MOT status: exempt
Technical specification: M180 2,306cc 6cyl 118bhp, 4-speed automatic
Paperwork: good history file, newspaper article, V5C, handbooks and wallet
Parts: valve stem seal parts and tools included

Maintenance summary since 2023 as advised by the seller:

Reconditioned radiator
Tappets adjusted
New battery
Carburettor overhaul
Intake system overhaul
Grease all suspension joints
Cam cover refresh
New engine mounts fitted
Engine oil cooler
Power steering fluid replaced
Power steering system filters
Alternator reconditioned
Four new whitewall tyres

Work in 2025:

Gearbox cooler repaired
Rear wheel cylinders replaced
Front brake calipers
Tie rod boots
Anti-roll bar link bushes
Underseal treatment on both sills
Engine service

2026:

Carburettor tune
Replacement brake servo from W108

The Detail

Purchased by the current owner in December 2023
Extensive work totalling £7,6000 since purchase, detailed above
Four new whitewall tyres fitted
Body colour chrome hubcaps
Attractive mid-blue paintwork in fair condition with some age visible in photos
This includes deterioration to the front wing and boot lid as shown
Bodywork presents well with straight panel fit across the doors
The body has a few small dings on the passenger door
Stone chip between the grille and headlamp
The chrome shows age-related wear but remains presentable in photos
Seller states the paintwork would benefit from a polish
Underside as shown, with recent underseal to the sills
Small blue-smoke puff reported after idling when hot
Current keeper believes worn valve stem seals are the likely cause
Smart and well-presented grey MB-Tex interior with some age visible
Carpets, door cards and seats in good order with light age visible
Seller notes slight peeling on the dashboard wood finish
Seller states the interior is in very good order overall

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller, which means consumer rights arising from EU consumer protection law do not apply. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic's own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is” basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance, and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

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