De Boar's Mercedes-Benz Classics: Classic Restos - Series 51

Ben De Boar says that he had a passion for cars from as early as five years of age. Now in retirement, he has more time to enjoy his lifetime love for cars, in particular, Mercedes-Benz.

His first Mercedes-Benz at the age of 22 was a 1960 Fintail. Today, his current stable of cars includes some of the finest examples of Mercedes -Benz models.

First is a 1981 Mercedes-Benz 380SL 3.8 litre, with 4-speed auto and an Alloy V8 engine. The car is in original unrestored condition, and Ben plans to leave it as is. It's not perfect, but it's original. Fletch says, "They are only original once". The 380SL build quality is very good, and these were solid cars, very reliable, and sporty without being over the top.

Next is a very rare 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280SE 2-door 3.5 V8 with a 4-speed manual transmission. Ben says this is a very exotic and stylish car and his favourite Mercedes-Benz ever, and that's a big call. Rare because there were only six ever manufactured and only two in Australia. Again, like his 380SL, the 280SE is in original condition; only the rubber work changed, and the engine and gearbox never touched. This model is much heavier and still drives like today's modern cars. Ben says there is nothing else like it, and it would be Mercedes-Benz's most popular shape of vehicle.

Ben's third Mercedes-Benz is a 1957 300D. It's totally different. Historically owned by Presidents like JF Kennedy, Queens and Princes, it's a very special car. With an extra-length wheelbase, it's a big car. And heavy, weighing in at 2.2 tonnes, all steel, wood and leather. As you would expect, this is very heavy in steering and handling.

Ben has been a lifetime member of the Mercedes-Benz Club and has held most positions. As you would expect, Ben says he doesn't drive these cars very often, but they still put a smile on his face when he does.