Description
The Classic Car Company is delighted to present to market, this beautifully restored Mercedes-Benz 300SE!
Successor to the well-respected but somewhat conservative 'pontoon' range, the W111 Series was introduced in May 1959. Due to its acclaimed design, the W111 quickly became a symbol of sophistication and cutting-edge technology. Soon nicknamed 'Fintails' due to their styling cues, the new models were built with safety and passenger comfort as a priority. Charged with translating Paul Bracq's elegant sketches into production reality, Karl Wilfert (body design) worked closely with fellow department heads Josef Muller (engines) and Rudi Uhlenhaut (chassis dynamics) to ensure that the W111 met chief engineer Fritz Nallinger's stringent expectations. Built around a monocoque, it featured independent coil and wishbone front suspension and a swing axle rear (the latter being tempered by a transverse leaf spring that brought welcome extra composure under cornering). Exhaustively tested on German, Austrian and Italian roads prior to release, the 'Fintail' proved to be so well honed that the factory team came first, second and third in the 1960 Monte Carlo Rally.
Unveiled in April 1961, the flagship model - the 300SE - was given its own type designation of W112. Powered by a Bosch fuel-injected M189 2996cc straight-six engine (derived from that of the legendary 300SL 'Gullwing'), the luxurious newcomer was equipped with air suspension, four-speed automatic transmission, power steering, four-wheel disc brakes, leather upholstery and burr walnut veneers as standard. Initially available as a four-door saloon only, Mercedes-Benz launched a two-door Coupe and Convertible from March 1962 onwards. A decidedly handsome design (roof up or down), the 300SE Cabriolet enjoyed a notably pliant ride and effortless performance. Fearsomely expensive, the rakish soft-top accounted for just 708 sales between March 1962 and December 1967 (though, a mere 78 of those were to right-hand drive, UK specification).
This particular 300SE is 1 of the 78 right-hand drive / UK market examples built, and was supplied new to Great Britain in Jan 1965. Not much is known about its early years, however the story picks up when it spent some time in America before being imported to the UK in September 2004. From then it underwent a comprehensive and documented restoration from March 2006 to May 2007. The restoration included a bare-metal respray in its original Grey Metallic, as well as an engine rebuild. The dark red leather interior and hood were also retrimmed to factory specifications. Further attention was paid to the vehicle in 2012 with extensive work on the exhaust system, fuel system, steering, brakes, and electronics, bringing the car back to Mercedes-Benz factory standards.
From then the vehicle was maintained by Mercedes Specialist Steve Redfearn – who we believe to be the very best in the business with classic Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
The vehicle was brought to us in 2024 for a full appraisal. At that point we took on the project to fully recommission the vehicle, ensuring this Mercedes-Benz 300SE continues to perform at the highest standards. Our workshop team, in consultation with Steve Redfearn, carried out a full overhaul of the suspension system, and addressed various engine, braking, steering and other mechanical issues. Form there we carried our dry ice cleaning of the underside and re protected it. We also re-chromed all the bumpers to restore their original shine. And finally the exterior paintwork was treated to a meticulous paint correction and detailing to bring out the deep, lustrous finish of the MB Grey Metallic. Every detail has been attended to, ensuring this 300SE is not only a joy to drive but also a showpiece in its own right.
This beautifully restored 300SE is an outstanding example of Mercedes-Benz engineering, ready for both show and driving enjoyment. It's a rare opportunity for any collector or enthusiast to own a piece of automotive history.
