Description
This lot is no
longer available
Originally launched at the 1961 Frankfurt Motor Show, the W111 220SE coupes and cabriolets set new standards in luxury, refinement and style and remain just as desirable today as they were during the 1960s. The coupe, with distinctive pillarless styling, was particularly elegant and the design has matured nicely over the years. Sitting above the 220SE coupes and cabriolets was the 300SE, launched in March 1962 with their own type number - W112 - to differentiate them from the lesser 220s.
Apart from extra chrome trim and more luxurious interiors, two things really set the new 300SE apart - firstly, the M189 all-alloy six-cylinder engine with Bosch mechanical fuel injection and 3-litres capacity to give 170bhp at 5400rpm and secondly, the air suspension system that was complemented by power-assisted disc brakes on all four wheels and a limited slip differential. 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 220SE models.
The 300SE was by far the rarest of the W111/W112 family, with only 3,127 ever made and this car dates from the final year of production, when total output fell to just 253 units.