Mercedes’ W115 saloon is famously durable and has enduring appeal as a practical and usable classic.
This example was imported from California in 2019 following almost three decades in the hands of a collector who treated it to a restoration in 1998 and used it sparingly thereafter.
Now in the hands of its second UK owner, it remains in a lovely usable condition with some opportunities for improvement and the seller lacks the time to give it the love and regular usage that it deserves.
His loss could be your gain though, so get your bid in now.DSC02988.jpg24.9 MB
The History and Paperwork
Acquired by the current owner in 2019
Imported to the UK earlier in the year by the previous owner, who reported the following:
Sold new to a doctor in Redding, California, 1970
Acquired by a collector in Burbank, California who owned it for almost 30 years before it was exported and maintained it on a no expense spared basis
A restoration was carried out in 1998 and approximately 47,000 miles, consisting of the following work (invoices provided):
Full engine rebuild (almost $6,000)
Seats were re-covered in period-correct leather, new carpets, headlining and dynamat soundproofing ($4,000)
Professionally repainted in its original horizon blue colour ($5,000)
Alpine remote control radio with amp and 6 disc CD changer and upgraded speakers installed ($2,000) - though the owner advises that it’s now past its best
A further 10,000 miles covered in the US prior to import to the UK, mostly to attend Californian car shows
It was reportedly stored for a number of years prior to export and subsequent recommissioning
Since arriving in the UK, the following has been carried out:
Radiator reconditioned and system flushed to ensure the car does not overheat
Electronic ignition conversion
Rebuilt carburettor with manual choke conversion
Various new brake components including pads, pipes, callipers
Prop shaft bearing
New rear exhaust
Fluids changed regularly
Four new white wall tyres
Large history file with full photographic record of all work completed in current ownership
Stored in and underground garage in current ownership
Although originally upholstered in MB-Tex, the last owner in the US decided that it should be restored with period-correct leather and it still sports this today, showing little to no wear.
Consequently, sliding behind the gorgeous thin-rimmed steering wheel gives you a luxury feel and the replacement headlining and carpets also remain in good condition.
Look more closely and there are some items that would benefit from some attention: the chrome around the instruments is showing some patina, the dash has a little cracking and the sun visors are showing their age, for example.
The radio isn’t currently working and the seller advises that the speakers need replacing. The air conditioning is not currently functioning as the radiator, which has been removed, is in need of refurbishment. It will be supplied with the car.
All that said, it remains very usable and, with some tinkering it could easily be upgraded.DSC03016.jpg25.08 MB
The Exterior
Horizon blue paintwork
Original Mercedes stainless wheel trims
Recently fitted white wall tyres
Finished in the original shade of Horizon blue and on fresh white wall tyres wearing their original colour-coded wheel trims, this Mercedes is dressed to impress and presents well.
As with the interior, closer inspection reveals a few opportunities to improve: the paint shows some imperfections which are captured in the photographs and the chrome is a little pitted in places.
The underside is described as being in excellent condition while the tyres have seen fewer than 200 miles since fitment and so have plenty of tread. Overall, then, it’s a fine looking car with some opportunities to improve.DSC02986.jpg20.74 MB
The Mechanics
2.2litre four cylinder petrol engine
Automatic gearbox
Drives well
Under the bonnet the engine bay is very clean and the seller reports that the car starts well (though can sometimes require ‘Park’ to be re-engaged first) and is whisper quiet.
On the road, it reportedly drives just as it should with no untoward noises and smooth gear changes, but with a pull to one side under heavy braking.
There are no leaks or smoking reported but the indicator regulator does need attention. In all it’s very usable but again has some areas that could be attended to.
A great driveable classic that looks great and has opportunities to tinker and improve.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
