One of just 5,202 W112 300SE saloons, a very rare RHD example
A taste of the height of 1960’s luxury in this predecessor to the current S-Class
Honest example showing nice patina
The Appeal
In the early 1960’s, Mercedes-Benz joined the US trend of tailfins with a series of saloons incorporating the flared design elements. The W112 300SE was among the cars to get this unique styling cue between 1961 and 1965.
Finished in its original blue grey paint colour, this 1963 example looks fabulous with the special fintails sitting proudly on the back. In fact, gorgeous red leather seats complete a brilliant original specification.
With just 5,202 saloon variants of the W112 ever built, this RHD model is most certainly one of very few examples still driving today. In fact, it was originally sold to the UK market before being imported to Ireland in 1996. There, it has been well cared for yet well-used, as it was designed to be. NTv6xBzKZZKQ6KE3zZ6w03YW4V5CWnrmnpA8P7BM.jpg1.12 MB
History and Paperwork
First registered in the UK as UJT20 in March 1963
Rare RHD example of the 300SE
Imported and registered in Ireland in 1996
Very little known about the car’s life in the UK
4 known owners since Irish registration
With most recent owner since 2007
Number of invoices show servicing carried out during the car’s life – notably in 1997 and 2010
Odometer currently reads 04,846 miles, one would assume the true mileage to be 104,846. However, this is unconfirmed and based on speculation from the extensive history file
Some invoices and book pack as part of history file with the car
The Mercedes 300SE has always been a staple of automotive luxury and this example’s interior certainly reflects as such. Red leather upholstery adorns the seats and door cards as matching carpets – which have been replaced at some point – cover all other large surfaces.
The majority of this red sea presents in good condition but there some signs of age throughout this very much original interior. The brunt of which are some minor creases in the leather seats. However, this is certainly nothing to worry about given the car’s overall good looks.
Elsewhere, cream headlining provides a nice break from the red and pairs nicely with the wide steering wheel and contrasting black dashboard. Throughout the interior, one can see plenty of tidy wood accents. The dashboard and centre console are both in very original state.
One must note that the original stereo, clock and lighter are not currently working. However, a modernised stereo head unit hides within the glove box providing occupants access to CD and radio functionality.
Open up the boot and you’ll find the spare wheel and chocks though there are no tools included with this example. Some small signs of surface corrosion are visible from the boot floor and extensive corrosion around the rear wheel arches with also a few bubbles on the left side lower door skins. WvGD02N1hyhaEWzUQp8TqQ7ljQSPIBfRxX5vFsSg.jpg1.44 MB
The Exterior
W112 Fintail styling
Lovely shade of grey paint
Nice amount of patina
With its fins protruding, the W112 300SE is certainly one of the more unique designs to come out of the Mercedes-Benz offices in Stuttgart. They pair excellently with the long bonnet and boot lid to make for a European take on the iconic American cruisers of the period. One must say that this car, especially in its sumptuous tint of grey is a head-turner.
As a whole, the car’s exterior looks to be in very presentable shape. The body panels curve nicely, the paint and chrome sparkle in the sunlight and the whole thing seems to sit on the road with pride.
However, the vendor has pointed out that this model could do with a full detail. In fact, the odd imperfection in the paint mixes with some small knocks to the chrome work to mean this car is showing some age. Elsewhere, many of the badges feature a healthy amount of patina.
Underneath, the car looks very clean and mostly free of worrying signs of corrosion. However, moisture around the rear wheel arches must be looked out for given the aforementioned signs of corrosion in the boot floor. BeO0H4UTw9kY0kefzb2G5sai0QOZIEnvRoCI2wIU.jpg1.22 MB
The Mechanics
Drives well
3-litre 6-cylinder engine, 160hp
Air suspension provides a “magic carpet ride’
Car just competed 186 mile run without issue
Powering this luxury Merc is a 3-litre inline-six engine capable of around 160hp. This sends the power to the rear wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission making for what must be a relaxing, silky smooth driving experience. That is further enhanced thanks to the air suspension which, as the vendor states, provides a “magic carpet ride.”
With over 100,000 miles on the clock, this 300SE has clearly been used as it was designed to be during its life. With that in mind, it features a Bosch Fuel Injection system and power steering.
Whilst driving well, the vendor points out some imperfections with the car’s mechanics. A hissing sound can reportedly be heard when the engine is off and the air suspension seemingly drops overnight. This is due to a suspected leak in the system, most likely in the airbags. Elsewhere, the brake pedal is said to be rather stiff whilst providing little travel. The car stops well currently but the vendor suspects a semi-seized rear left brake and recommends a full service including the replacement of all fluids. ywy24xnii0nZHe6wRzeT3ooC1SHwT3iTNh8QwYvj.jpg1.36 MB
Summary
With a unique design trait, this 1963 Mercedes 300SE is sure to turn heads wherever it goes. The vendor describes it as an honest example with nice patina that drives well.
Vendor can assist with shipping to UK and worldwide
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
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