Highlights
- Enthusiast ownership since 2016 with just one previous keeper
- Comprehensive restoration totalling over £18,000
- Bare-metal restoration and repaint in the 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 superb engineering.
The 220S was the step up from the 220—more powerful. Twin carburettors boosted output to 105bhp, but these cars can be spotted more easily thanks to their twin bumpers and chrome side running strips.
This lovely Ruby Red example has been cherished by its second owner since 2016 and is a really fine tribute to his enthusiasm and care. According to the history file, it was extensively restored in 2018 at a cost of around £18,000. The work included an £8,000 engine rebuild, bare-metal bodywork renovation, and a full repaint in the original bright red factory colour. It was also fitted with new rubbers, gaskets, and seals, plus replacement bumpers. The underside was fully Waxoyl-protected. We’re told the car has covered just 540 miles since completion.
It is a really evocative and impressive machine. The red colour theme continues inside, where the 220S’s wood veneer and improved door cards remain intact. This would be a great 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’s the sort of car that draws attention wherever it goes and is equally enjoyable for relaxed drives, shows, or simply admiring 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, 4-speed manual transmission
- Paperwork: large history file, V5C, handbooks, brochures, restoration photos, typed summary of restoration work
The Detail
- 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 hubcaps and matching spare
- New tyres fitted since restoration with only a few miles covered
- Replacement front and rear stainless steel bumpers fitted
- Engine removed and fully restored, including engine respray
- Vendor states the 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’re told the wool headliner is 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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