1966 Mercedes-Benz 250SE Cabriolet

Background:

Introduced in 1959, the Mercedes-Benz W111 ‘Fintail’ models remained in production until 1971. Production of the Paul Bracq-designed Cabriolets began in late 1960, utilising the saloon’s platform but with a more rounded look, losing some of the distinctive tailfins of the saloon range.

Three capacities of straight-six powered the range until it was replaced in 1971 with the 250SE Cabriolet being sold from late 1965 until the end of 1967. Powered by a 2.5-litre straight-six, the 250SE was fitted with Bosch fuel injection and produced nearly 150bhp, married to a 4-speed automatic transmission, giving it a top speed of around 118mph.

Aimed squarely at those discerning customers who enjoyed the occasional wind in the hair driving experience, but needed four seats, a little luxury and a hewn-from-solid build quality, the stylish 250SE Cabriolet was the car of choice for the well-heeled soft top enthusiast who didn’t want a hairy-chested sportscar.

The car:

This very special, hand-assembled, highly sought after and beautifully original Mercedes Benz 250SE is one of just 26 right-hand drive examples and is resplendent in the fabulously classy period combination of metallic gold with black leather interior.

This 250 SE was owned by the same family for 42 years, from purchase in 1980 until 2023 when it then joined our vendor’s significant private Collection. During the long-term ownership, the car was clearly well looked after. Work and maintenance during their ownership included changing the brake callipers, pipes, certain fuel lines and suspension due to standard wear that accumulates over 88,000 miles of use. The injector pump was overhauled by a Bosch specialist and over time, the car has benefited from replacement cam belts and hoses.

The previous owner had scuffed the front wings, so 35 years ago it had the two front wings replaced with genuine Mercedes panels and was resprayed. It also had some welding work done to the sills to make it sound, but otherwise it is believed that the bodywork is absolutely original.

It should be noted that the hydro-pneumatic compensating spring has been replaced by a standard spring arrangement on the recommendation of a Mercedes mechanic and this work has been reported to have worked perfectly since fitted and has made no discernible difference to the ride quality. The car comes with a high specification, including power steering and disc brakes.

The panel gaps, shut lines and chrome work look tidy throughout, with no obvious dings or blemishes and the interior is highly original with a charming patina.

This special car is accompanied with some history including invoices for the replacement front wings and overhauled fuel-injection pump, its original owners manual, two sets of car keys and the original instruction manual. Also in the history file is the invoice for the maintenance carried out by the current vendor in August 2023, with over £3,000 being spent including a full service. The logbook shows it’s had five previous owners, but it’s worth noting that three of those owners were the previous vendor, his brother and his father during the family ownership period.

Summary:

This extremely rare, desirable and charmingly original Benz represents an incredibly rare opportunity. This timeless classics would enhance any Collection whilst still providing an unequalled open-top touring experience.

Seller: Private

Pictures: Professional

Location: Hertfordshire