Introduced in 1961, the W111 coupe was an undeniable milestone in Mercedes-Benz’ product range. Taken from its larger sister car, the saloon, the coupe cut out a bit of that weighty metal and made for a somewhat perkier drive, and slightly restyled the rear into a squarer Paul Bracq design. With a very highly appointed interior, big greenhouse windows and that all-important grill, there’s little wonder that it’s still sought after.
This example comes to us in fine fettle, with an enormous paperwork file, and has come to the EU from California - where it’s benefited from the dry weather and plenty of sunshine. We’re sure the Kuhlmeister air conditioning proved very useful. IMG_E5233.JPG2.56 MB
The History and Paperwork
Last change of owner in 1998
Car has spent most of its life in ‘dry state’ California
Car indicates 25,599 miles on a five-figure odometer
Two sets of keys
Recently undergone an extensive service
Enormous selection of paperwork, many of it original from ‘66
Original Mercedes booklets, manuals and stamped service record book
Distinguished interior with extensive wooden accents
Lashings of chrome surrounds and trims pick out the dials
MB-Tex black seating in excellent condition
The moment you step inside the W111, there’s no doubting its appointment. This is an executive car, loaded with plenty of wood, chrome and MB-Tex to evoke the feel of a smoking lounge on wheels. It’s very much a charming signature of its time, and one that only feels more evocative and luxurious today.
The wooden dashboard presents beautifully, and seems to be in rare order. We can’t spot any significant cracking or loss to the lacquer, and each instrument - all of which are lovably retro - is clean, readable and reportedly working as expected. We were particularly pleased to see the original Becker Europa TR radio still in situ, and the cabin boasts Kuhlmeister Magna-Temp air conditioning.
The seating shows some light patina and cracking, commensurate with their advancing age. We can discern a small rip in the right-side rear passenger seat, but this appears to be the only one evident. The headlining is in great condition with no clear stains, or damage, and the carpets look to be in good order.
Round the back, the boot looks solid and well-kept, with a good spare wheel and rubber matting throughout. IMG_E5266.JPG4.11 MB
The Exterior
Finished in Mercedes-Benz colour code No.519 - Light Red
Brightly presented with only minor wear
Original colour-matched wheels
It’s hard to deny Mercedes-Benz's penchant for aesthetics. The 250SE Coupe is a great ambassador to that sheer skill of design - big pillarless windows, subtle curves to the grill, big headlights and generous quantities of chrome make for a much-coveted milestone in the company’s product range.
This example comes to us in very good order - the stylish bodywork is tightly knit, with crisp shut lines and very little wear to the paintwork. The chromework contrasts nicely, with a bright finish and a clean grill all accenting the red paint perfectly. The vendor notes some bubbling to the bonnet, and we can spot some light marks to the front bumper, though it doesn’t detract from the overall appearance.
The car is sitting pretty on a full set of colour-matched alloys, shod in what looks to be a very good set of tyres. Underneath, we’re informed that the car is in excellent order, in line with the car’s ‘dry state’ lifestyle.
Powered by Mercedes-Benz’ 2,496cc six-cylinder engine
Four-speed manual transmission
Recent work of over €5500 includes:
Overhauled fuel tank including replacement float and hoses
New fuel pump
New main brake cylinder and hoses
New filters, oil and plugs
New gaskets, drive-belts and rubberwork
New ignition including distributor and rotor
New battery terminals
Complete overhaul of the starter
All recent work completed by Mercedes-Benz specialist, Van Dijk
Car is operating as expected with no leaks, unusual noises or smoke
Vendor reports that it drives nicely and brakes as expected
A look into the car’s engine presents a nicely-kept example of the W111 and Mercedes-Benz’ M129 engine. There’s some age commensurate wear, but no clear signs of leaks or corrosion that we can discern, and it all looks to be in fine fettle.
The vendor is pleased to report no faults in how the car drives, which seems in line with the car’s good condition and excellent paperwork file.
Beautifully presented, this much-sought-after ‘Greenhouse’ coupe is a superb overall example from end-to-end, with a paperwork file that’s close to unrivalled.
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.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased. Car & Classic may refer a shipping company that also deals with import/export paperwork. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders.
