Description
A very special example of a rare car. This right-hand drive, UK-supplied 300SEL 3. 5 was first owned by renowned entertainer, Danny La Rue. Subsequently it has been owned by Mercedes restorer, Mark Cosovic, and John Haynes of John Haynes Mercedes-Benz.
The 300SEL, based on the W109 chassis was, aside from the Grosser, the most sophisticated and luxurious of the Mercedes range during the sixties, featuring an extended wheelbase, air suspension and fuel injection. In 1969 the old M189 six-cylinder engine was replaced by the thoroughly modern 3. 5-litre V8 giving a substantial boost in performance. It was a relatively short-lived model, lasting just three years before the classical elegance of the W108/ 109 was replaced by the squarer-edged W116.
Having won showbusiness personality of the year in 1969 and theatre personality of the year in 1970, Danny La Rue was at his peak when he purchased this car, which at that time wore the registration ‘FLY 9’. Interviewed in 1993, when he was reunited with the car, he fondly remembered driving the Mercedes with Liberace, Judy Garland and Betty Grable as passengers.
Twenty years later the 3. 5 found its way into the hands of W123 restorer Mark Cosovic who kept it until 1999, when it was purchased by Mercedes specialist John Haynes for his private collection. John kept the car for twenty years.
Today the car remains in exceptional condition. Finished in its original Silver Grey, the bodywork is unblemished. The black leather interior is unmarked and correct down to its Becker Europa radio.
Given its ownership history, it is no surprise to find that the car is mechanically excellent having been fastidiously maintained and drives exactly as it should. Recent work by Cardock Classics in Dublin has continued the pattern of proactive maintenance.
There is a large history file with the car detailing ownership, maintenance records and newspaper cuttings. All original books, manuals, keys and the data card are present.
Always a rare car in the UK, not least due to its prohibitive cost when new, the 300SEL 3. 5 offers incomparable style and elegance with luxury and effortless performance. It would be hard to imagine finding a comparable example in terms of condition or provenance.
