Highlights
- In single ownership from 1968 to 2016, chauffeur-driven throughout
- Retains its original paintwork
- Imported from Australia's dry climate and dry-stored since arrival in the UK
- Accompanied by a history file including original service book, manuals, and delivery certificate
- Over £26,000 spent on maintenance since entering the UK
The Appeal
The W108 saw Mercedes-Benz change their language from flamboyance to function, with squared-off, unfussy lines and a remarkably over-engineered quality that made these cars incredibly enduring. They were built to cover impressive mileage in bona fide comfort, and for many made the perfect chauffeur-driven car, especially in their long-wheelbase guise. Elsewhere, things stayed where they should - a traditional upright grille and a very comfortable cabin. Old-money aesthetics in a thoroughly modernised machine.
This ex-Oz example is a particularly fine ambassador. Purchased new in 1968 from a Melbourne dealer, it remained in the care of a single owner for nearly five decades, chauffeur-driven throughout that impressive tenure. Service book records show modest usage, with just under 20,000 miles covered over a six-year period in the 1970s. Upon the original owner's passing in 2016, the car was imported to the UK, where considerable investment has been made in its upkeep. It has recently been serviced and inspected by marque expert Paul Sumner (ex-Roger Edwards, Mercedes specialist of this era), who we're informed noted it to be in remarkable condition for its age.
The history file is comprehensive, featuring the original delivery certificate, service book, manuals, and a substantial collection of invoices. It's a real diamond in the rough; a fabulous opportunity that's ready and waiting to hit the road with its lucky new keeper.
Key Information
- Mileage: 11,381 miles (indicated)
- Has been around the clock, judging from the car's service history
- Country of registration: UK (ex-Australia)
- Technical inspection status: MOT exempt
- Technical specs: 2,800cc inline-six petrol, 4-speed automatic
- Paperwork: Original service book, manuals, delivery certificate from the supplying dealer in Melbourne, and a large collection of invoices and maintenance records
The Detail
- Engine rebuilt in 2018 using genuine parts
- New brake callipers, discs, pads, and shock absorbers fitted
- New bushes in the column change and replacement drag link installed
- Full Dinitrol underbody protection applied, covering chassis cavities, sills, inner rear quarter panels, lower doors, and rear door around bonnet frame
- The vendor states the underside was noted to be in very good original condition prior to Dinitrol treatment
- Air conditioning system refurbished and reported to blow cold
- New carpets and overmats fitted
- All electrical features reported to function correctly, including central locking, electric windows, original radio with illuminated display, and electric aerial
- Finished in dark blue with original paintwork; a tiny blemish is noted just under the boot shut-line
- Paintwork wearing slightly thin above the driver's door, though this isn't intrusive
- Small crack noted above the binnacle, likely caused by heat from the Australian climate
- The vendor describes the car as an absolute pleasure to drive, gaining attention wherever it goes
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
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✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
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or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.
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