1963 | Mercedes-Benz 300 SE

• The top model of the "S-Class" at the time with elaborate technical equipment, one of only 708 convertibles built
• Timeless and original colour scheme in white (DB 050) with black leather interior and black soft top
• Very comprehensive restoration with detailed documentation
• High-quality state of preservation
• Engine “matching numbers"
• Contemporary Becker Europe radio
• Mercedes Benz data card available

The Mercedes Benz 300 SE Cabriolet presented here was completed on 19 July 1963 according to the available factory data card. It first went to the USA, where it remained after several changes of ownership until 1990 and was then imported back to Germany. Today, the Cabriolet still (or again) has its timeless, original colour scheme with white exterior paintwork (colour code DB 050) as well as a black leather interior and soft top.
In Germany, the new owner carried out a very comprehensive restoration of the car, which was documented in detail. In the course of this, the car was practically rebuilt in the body shell from the floor assembly to the roof. Numerous invoices are available on the extensive work regarding bodywork, mechanics, interior, upholstery, paintwork and chrome trim, which was carried out to the highest standard. There is hardly a component that has not been replaced or reworked. The engine was also carefully and extensively overhauled in all components. The total financial investment at the time probably totalled around 170,000 to 200,000 DM. Numerous photos provide evidence of the thoroughness and masterly craftsmanship that was applied here. As a result, the car was probably in the same or even better condition than when it rolled off the production line in Stuttgart in 1963. The 300 SE Cabriolet subsequently had several owners in Germany (all names known), whereby the car's excellent condition was always maintained. The result of the high-quality restoration can still be seen today: Due to the few kilometres driven kilometres and the owners’ careful treatment, the engine compartment, the underbody, the interior and of course the body have a great overall appearance. The vehicle also impresses on the road at a high level. The engine responds well, the automatic gearbox shifts smoothly, the steering is direct and there are no rattling noises even on poor roads (e.g. cobblestones). In 2021, the car was sold by EBERHARD THIESEN to the collection of an established enthusiast in Germany. We have now been commissioned by him to pass the vehicle on to the next dedicated connoisseur who can enjoy this exceptional 300 SE Cabriolet. The current expenditure for a comparable restoration is probably higher than our asking price of EUR 195,000.

Mercedes Benz had already delivered a major success in 1959 with the new model series W 111 "tail fin", which offered a prestigious appearance and the best workmanship typical for the brand. In addition, the with new luxury saloon also debuted the “crumple zone” patented by Béla Barényi. Together with a padded dashboard and innovative door locks, that did not spring open so quickly in the event of an accident, it introduced a market-leading safety standard. In 1961, the company went one better and presented a new top-of-the-range saloon model, the 300 SE (separate W 112 series). This was powered by a 3-litre in-line six-cylinder engine with mechanical intake manifold injection and an output of 160 hp. Its sophisticated technical equipment included a newly developed four-speed automatic transmission and disc brakes on all four wheels for sufficient deceleration. The innovative air suspension, which was installed for the first time at Mercedes, enabled a levelled, comfortable ride regardless of the load. Even when braking, the rear end no longer rose thanks to the new suspension. A power steering and the standard differential lock supported the driving characteristics of the top-notch model. Visually, it was recognisable by the extended chrome trim with wheel arch surrounds and a centre trim strip from front to rear. One year after the launch of the 300 SE saloon, the coupé and cabriolet versions of the model made their debut as companions to the coupé and cabriolet of the W 111 (220 SE and 250 SE). They did not have the emphasised rear fin of the saloon, which together with the flatter roofline resulted in an elegant and clearly more timeless appearance. Regardless of the body version, a 300 SE was a member of an exclusive circle. Even the 300 SE saloon cost at least 24,500 DM – the price of four and a half VW Export Beetles. If you ordered the cabriolet or coupé version with some optional features, the price could quickly double. The coupés and cabriolets of the 300 SE outlived the saloon and were built alongside its successor (W 108) before they were finally discontinued in 1967. A total of 2,419 Mercedes 300 SE Coupés and only 708 Cabriolets left the factory halls. Mercedes reintroduced an S-Class Coupé with the C 126 SEC, which was launched in 1981, although a Cabriolet version was not available. Today, a 300 SE is a rare and sought-after vehicle from Mercedes heritage – especially the Cabriolets, which were already rare at the time.