1965 Mercedes-Benz 220SE – Project Profile
June 15, 2023
There are few things in life more appealing than a classic Mercedes-Benz. There’s an air of sophistication, there’s the unending sense and feel of quality, and let us not forgot, a classic Mercedes-Benz is never out of style or favour. That’s why this 1965 Mercedes-Benz 220SE should be on your radar, especially if you’re looking for one you can put your mark on and turn into something truly spectacular. While this is Project Profile, there is no denying that you could drive this 220SE as it is. However, with a bit of careful DIY restoration work, you could easily take it to another level.
What is it?
As mentioned above, what we have here is a 1965 Mercedes-Benz 220SE coupe, one that seems to have lived a cared for, happy life. It needs some tweaking now, a bit of love here and there, but even so, this one is a running, driving, tax and MOT exempt car. How lovely. Fitted with the bulletproof M127 2,195cc straight-six petrol, this one is definitely a cruiser rather than a bruiser. It does, however, have a four-speed manual transmission, which makes it a bit more engaging to drive than its automatic counterparts.
Finished in metallic green with black leather interior, it’s every bit the stunner it was when new. Some bits need love, there is some rust to sort, the interior could do with a freshen up, but it’s all easy stuff that could be done by the willing home restorer. And in doing so, you’re sure to build more value into this fine old car.
Why is it a project?
As we say, this 220SE needs a bit of finishing rather than a full restoration or anything like that. While it’s evident that the car has been cared for, there is no service history as such. There are invoices and receipts for various parts that have been bought and fitted though, which is something. There are some spares in the boot, too. As for the car itself, the interior is the main thing that needs work. While it is all functional, the radio is absent and the signs of age are present on the front seats and the door cards. These would need re-doing, and new carpet probably wouldn’t hurt. Externally, a good cut and polish would help, especially on the chrome. Though it should be noted, this emerald green isn’t a factory colour – the car was originally white. There is some rust to address on the offside rear arch which will need getting on top of, but that seems to be about it. We would of course encourage you get it MOTd for peace of mind, despite it being exempt.
What should I look for?
This is an auction listing here on Car & Classic, so we have done all the hard work for you. We would encourage you to pore over the pictures and read the listing. Everything you need to know is there. We would also suggest getting in touch with a local classic or Mercedes specialist to see if they would be willing to help you on your 220SE journey.
What should I do with it?
Were it ours, we would do exactly as listed above. Service, maybe some new white wall tyres, get it MOTd, then sort the interior and the rust. The trick here is make this car a viable, usable classic, not something you end up being too scared to take out. This car might be from 1965, but trust us when we say it will welcome regular use. Most mechanical parts are available, and it has only covered 65k so it has many, many miles left in it. Just think, all buttoned up, how good would this look on your driveway or in the office car park?
