1962 Mercedes-Benz W111 Cabriolet
The epitome of a golden age in motoring, the Mercedes W111 convertibles are synonymous with prosperity and good taste, and their elegant styling has aged well. Their superb build quality, refined interiors and straight-six engines are all characteristics which perfectly define this range of cars bearing the three-pointed star. The work of the French designer Paul Bracq, just 2729 examples of the 220 SE Cabriolet were built. This rare convertible has always been cherished by successive generations of collectors.
Inside, the car featured leather and chromed all over the place. The luxurious interior was meant for rich people with high taste and big expectations. The car was fitted as standard with a 4-speed automatic transmission just to enhance the driving experience.
Under the hood, the W111 cabriolet featured a choice of engines with mechanical fuel injection built by Bosch. The rarest version was the 300 SE with a 3.0-liter inline-six engine with only 708 units produced. The top model featured the 3.5-liter V8 unit, which was produced in 1232 units.
The interior remains all original as well, however walnut veneers were removed and refinished by a local piano restoration specialist sometime in the 1980’s. Leather seat upholstery shows its age. Leather side trim including door panels and rear passenger compartment items are in very good condition as are carpets, mats and original linen headliner.
The 220SEb was the top of the range W111 Coupe that featured Bosch fuel injection as opposed to twin Solex carburetors found on the 220Sb. More horsepower, better acceleration, and the ability to gobble up miles. This 1962 220SEb up for sale in Chicago looks like it did exactly that. This W111 Coupe isn’t a pickled show car or museum piece. It was enjoyed thoroughly.
