Highlights
- Current enthusiast keeper since 2016 with just one former keeper
- Comprehensive restoration totalling over £18,000
- Bare metal restoration and repaint in original Ruby Red colour
- Engine fully restored at a cost of £8,000
The Appeal
Beyond the Fintails, what sets the W111 apart is a world first - it pioneered the use of crumple zones, making it hugely safe in an era of combustible American-made sedans. Naturally, it was also durable in other ways, thanks to the impeccable engineering.
The 220S was the plus, more powerful version of the 220. Twin carburettors raised power to 105bhp, but these cars can be more easily identified by their double bumpers and chrome side running strips.
This lovely Ruby Red has cherished by its second keeper since 2016 and is a really fine testament to his enthusiasm and care. It was extensively restored in 2018 at a cost of around £18,000, according to the history file. The work included an £8,000 engine rebuild, bare metal bodywork renovation and a full repaint in the original bright red factory colour. It also received new rubbers, gaskets and seals and replacement bumpers. The underside was fully Waxoyl-protected. We’re told that the car has only covered 540 miles since completion.
It is a really evocative and impressive machine. The red colour scheme continues inside, where the wood veneer and improved door cards of the 220S remain intact. This would be a really fine way to get from A to B, whether you were there in 1961 or the lucky buyer in 2026.
The vendor says:
“A wonderful example of a W111 that offers the character, style and driving experience that makes classic cars so special. It is the sort of car that attracts attention wherever it goes and is equally enjoyable for relaxed drives, shows, or simply appreciating in the garage. It would ideally suit an enthusiast who will continue to look after it
“A much loved car by the current owner.”
Key Information
- Mileage: 50,871 miles indicated (vendor states 540 miles since restoration)
- Country of registration: United Kingdom
- Technical inspection status: MOT exempt as a Historic Vehicle
- Technical specs: 2,195cc six-cylinder petrol, 4spd manual transmission
- Paperwork: large history file, V5C, handbooks, brochures, restoration photos, typed summary of restoration work
The Detail
- Bodywork stripped back to bare metal and professionally refinished in the original factory colour, Ruby Red
- Window glass removed prior to respray to ensure a high-quality finish
- Full wax-oil treatment carried out for long-term protection
- New rubbers, clips and seals fitted throughout
- Steel wheels with chrome hub caps and matching spare
- New tyres fitted since restoration with few miles covered
- Replacement front and rear stainless steel bumpers fitted
- Engine removed and fully restored including engine respray
- Vendor states that engine work cost £8,000
- Engine professionally refitted; approximately 500 miles covered since restoration
- Vendor states the original red interior is in very good condition
- We are told that the wool headliner as being in excellent condition
- Interior carpets described by the vendor as in good condition
- No faults or modifications reported by the vendor
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