1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 3.5

First owned by 'Entertainer of the decade 1979' Danny La Rue OBE

On offer from long-term ownership by one of the worlds leading Mercedes-Benz specialists

Subject to a continuous programme of improvements over the years

Mechanically and aesthetically excellent. Superb interior with original Becker 'Europa'

Timeless colour combination, classic Mercedes-Benz ownership at its best.

Forerunner to the S-Class, the W108 Mercedes-Benz was introduced in 1965 and the distinctive fins of its predecessor, the 'Fintail' ( W111), were eliminated, resulting in a smoother and more sophisticated overall appearance. Initially powered by six-cylinder engines, the cars were designated 250S, 250SE or 300SE, the numbers relating to engine displacement, and the “E” designating fuel injection. Alongside the models with normal wheelbase, which were only available with steel suspension, Mercedes-Benz offered the long-wheelbase SEL models with the option of air suspension. Even more lavishly appointed, they formed a model series in their own right, with the designation W 109. Apart from the longer wheelbase and air-suspension. other differences with the cheaper W108 included chrome window frames on the four doors, chrome sill treads, leather upholstery, electric windows, wool velour carpet, and in a few cars, Burr Walnut veneers.

In order to provide more power in the U.S. market, a V8 engine was made available in 1970, initially a 3.5-litre unit, and eventually, nearly nine and a half thousand of these classy big saloons found homes despite being marketed, in true Teutonic style, as the W109 300SEL 3.5.

This outstanding late W109 model is finished in gleaming Silver and is one of the 9,483 fitted with the 3.5 V8 engine. It was specified from new with the emphasis on style and elegance, totally appropriate as its first owner was one of the most flamboyant and successful celebrity entertainers of the era, the incomparable Danny La Rue OBE. At the time this car would have cost more to purchase than the equivalent Rolls-Royce. If you take time to look through the car's history file, you will discover newspaper clippings outlining Danny La Rue's ownership with personal accounts of fond memories transporting close friends and colleagues such as Liberace, Judy Garland and Betty Grable to various shows and events around the country.

The car has been enjoyed by seven owners, one of whom was the secretary of the Welsh MB owners club in the early 90s, and details of the others can be found in the history folder. Its current owner and our vendor is Mercedes-Benz 'guru', John Haynes, and it has formed part of his private collection since 1999.

As a result of a continuous programme of improvements, upon inspection, it is clear to see that this car has been fastidiously restored with fine attention to every last detail. The bodywork is virtually free from any blemish, the panel gaps are all uniform, and overall the car presents without fault. We understand that it is also mechanically excellent and on test performs as you would expect from a quality car of this era. With old MoT Certificates, tax discs, service paperwork, various receipts, period photographs, and newspaper clippings, it's clear to see that this car has provided a large amount of enjoyment over the years.

Although a distant celebrity connection is a great conversation starter the real reason to consider purchasing a 1970's 300SEL is simply that these cars were world-beaters in period, and were revered for their elegant lines, excellent engineering, and sense of presence.

Now available from long-term ownership by one of the world's leading Mercedes-Benz specialists, this is an opportunity to own a wonderful classic Mercedes with an interesting history and many more years of enjoyment left in the tank. Sure to be the talking point of any car show and we doubt you will find a better one.