1966 Mercedes-Benz 300 SE Coupe

Description

One of the most glamorous and expensive cars of the 1960s was the W111/112 range by Mercedes-Benz, a series of coupes and cabriolets first unveiled at the 1961 Frankfurt Motor Show. Based on its saloon sibling’s underpinnings, the original 220SE model set new standards of technical excellence and refinement and was followed by a new flagship, the 300SE, in March 1962. Although visually similar (albeit with additional exterior chrome), the 300SE incorporated numerous technical upgrades, starting with the M189 all-alloy six-cylinder engine boasting Bosch mechanical fuel injection and developing a very healthy 170bhp at 5400rpm. The chassis came with an effective new air suspension system, along with power-assisted disc brakes on all four wheels, plus a limited slip differential. These changes brought into effect the W112 designation, setting them apart from the considerably cheaper 220/250 models. Four-speed automatic transmission was standard, although a four-speed manual could be ordered and later cars could be had with a ZF five-speed unit. Inside, there was genuine wool carpet, leather upholstery and rich timber veneers to create the impression of a bespoke luxury express and justify the huge premium in price over the 220/250SE models. Favoured by celebrities like Peter Sellers when new, the exclusive 300SE is perfectly at home cruising the French Riviera or streets of Beverly Hills today. By far the rarest of the W111/W112 family, only 3,127 coupes and cabriolet 300SEs were made in total and collectors are now finally starting to recognise the significance of these cars, with prices showing a rapid increase in the past few years.