Description
Mercedes-Benz E220 Cabriolet — One Owner from New
This is a particularly special E220 Cabriolet, not simply because of its condition, but because of the story and history that comes with it.
It has had one gentleman owner from new and has covered 141, 000 miles throughout its life, with an outstanding service history to match. There are 21 stamps in the original service book, along with a large file of invoices covering servicing, maintenance and parts.
The original paperwork is a real highlight. The file still contains the original 1994 sales invoice from Rose & Young Mercedes-Benz, the main dealer in Surrey who supplied the car when new. It has spent its entire life in Surrey and has clearly been cherished from day one.
The original Mercedes-Benz sales brochures, manuals and booklets are all still present in the Mercedes pouch, together with two sets of keys.
Before sale, the car has just been through a Mercedes-Benz main dealer A service at Mercedes-Benz Brighton and has also passed a fresh MOT with no advisories. Interestingly, both the servicing technician and sales manager commented on the car, describing it as a “stunning example” — which is always nice to hear when you know how much care has gone into keeping a car like this.
The colour combination is, in my opinion, one of the best features of the car. It is finished in Tourmaline Green metallic with contrasting Tan leather, giving it that classic 1990s Mercedes look that suits the Cabriolet perfectly.
The car still wears its original Rose & Young number plates front and rear, and there is no known history of accident damage.
It has clearly been a garage-kept car. The Mohair-style roof is in very good condition, with none of the tiredness you often see on cars of this age. The alloy wheels were professionally restored a few years ago and remain exceptionally clean, with no obvious kerbing or chips.
The interior is equally impressive. It has never been smoked in, and the leather and carpets have been very well looked after. Overmats were used throughout its life, helping to preserve the original carpets, while the Tan leather remains soft and comfortable with no significant scuffs or stains.
The dashboard and wood trim are also remarkably good, with none of the cracking or sun damage that these cars can suffer from. It really does give the impression of a car that has been cared for rather than simply maintained.
For anyone wanting to use the car regularly, it also has heated front seats, making it just as usable for a Sunday morning drive as it is for a longer journey.
Specification & Original Options
When ordered new, the original owner specified:
Metallic paint
Front armrest
Steering column adjustment
Outside temperature gauge
Special radio/ cassette
With these options included, the original purchase price was £40, 733. 60.
Cars like this are becoming increasingly difficult to find. The 1990s Mercedes four-seat Cabriolets offer something that modern cars simply don't have, proper four-seat practicality, a beautifully simple electronic convertible roof and that unmistakable old-school Mercedes-Benz character.
They are also becoming increasingly popular at classic car shows and events, and I think cars with this combination of provenance, originality and history will only become harder to find.
I have deliberately not tried to make this car sound like something it isn't. It is an honest, very well-preserved example with an exceptional history, and the paperwork really tells the story.
If you're looking for an E220 Cabriolet to enjoy rather than one that needs putting back together, this is certainly worth coming to see.
Any inspection is very welcome, and I'm happy to discuss the car, its history or answer any questions.
