Quite apart from their incredible build quality, there were several things that were significant about the timelessly solid Mercedes-Benz “W114” models, launched in 1968.
The car was styled by Paul Bracq, who had previously designed the iconic ‘Pagoda’ roof Mercedes SLs, and the W114 featured a number of styling cues carried straight over from the iconic sports car, namely the fluted wheel arches and vertically stacked front headlamp lenses, along with its narrow A-pillars and steeply curved windscreen.
This example is a 1971 230 that has spent most of its life in South Africa until it was imported here last month. It is believed to be a genuine mileage car in original condition. JnIGFAaS2lMjQcASo587E7UiVqu9KWg3oal8DF2b.jpeg2.02 MB
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
Imported from South Africa
Built on Mercedes-Benz’s behalf by Car Distributors of East London in South Africa’s Cape Province
Mileage believed genuine
Some history papers – currently being shipped from ZA, vendor will update when they arrive
The cabin is one of the key areas that will attract people to this 230E as it’s an amazing colour scheme – bronze-beige MB-Tex leatherette upholstery topped off with matching door cards and a black vinyl. Brown carpets and an ivory headlining complete the effect.
The dash is reassuringly old-fashioned but straightforward, with a pod containing a three-dial VDO instrument panel and a large steering wheel, with a traditional horn ring and simple, basic controls. The dash itself is free from cracks or damage, and is fitted with a wonderfully retro radio-cassette player.I7MZwtqJIiqoCfEVrNJYzrlFLP9ocU6KBBQ3T2Mh.jpeg1.62 MB
THE EXTERIOR
Tobacco Beige
All original
Good chrome
Excellent underneath
It’s a real testimony to Mercedes-Benz build quality of the era that the W114 still wears its original factory paintwork, which is in superb order. It looks fantastic in Tobacco Beige, while the matching wheel covers set it off beautifully.
There’s the odd small nick or scratch as you’d expect from a car that’s over 50 years old, but there’s no rust to be seen anywhere on the upper body. The underside also appears wonderfully solid. The chrome and trim is all very good, with only minor signs of wear. At the time of our photos the Mercedes three-pointed-star bonnet ornament was absent – the vendor has ordered a replacement and will attach it before collection. 3RtMqDf4UM1kV9dRY01qkPUkaqt20JN1hyvYuVto.jpeg2.3 MB
THE MECHANICS
2,248cc OHC 6-cylinder
Four-speed manual
Drives well
Will be fully-serviced prior to sale
The smooth and responsive four-cylinder engine is sweet running and lively, firing up on the button and settling to a steady idle. It’s coupled to a four-speed manual transmission that has a very mechanical feel and engages all gears smoothly and without fuss.
Despite its age, the W114 feel surprisingly agile, thanks in no small part to its relatively complex suspension set-up, which gives it a decent balance between handling and comfort, while the steering and brakes are both in fine order.
We were able to conduct a short test drive and can confirm that the Benz is a lovely car to drive with light controls and a tight but sturdy feel to it. There don’t appear to be any running problems and it holds a smooth idle and steady temperature. It will be given a full service before sale.nrmjMxGgwPMvKPQmFafkCIs7CX2YgCWu6Atbf5yG.jpeg1.22 MB
SUMMARY
This is a grand and stately car that epitomises the very best of Mercedes-Benz build quality from an era where it made inarguably the finest cars in the world. This one is beautifully originally and well-presented throughout.
Notice to bidders
All items in this listing are sold on an “As Is - Where Is” basis. Photos and listing descriptions should be used as a guide only. Although every effort has been made to verify the accuracy of the information in this listing and Car & Classic performs a level of due diligence prior to the auction, we do not warrant the accuracy of the listings. The seller assumes all responsibility for this listing. Inspection is highly recommended prior to bidding. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion.
Please take care when making a bid as once your bid is placed, it cannot be withdrawn and will not be cancelled. If you are unsure do not bid as no refunds will be given.
A nonrefundable buyer deposit is applied to all items won at auction. Please see our FAQs and T&Cs for further details.
All bidding is subject to our T&Cs. By registering and bidding you agree to the terms. Please ensure you clearly read them alongside the special terms and conditions contained in this listing.
