1966 Mercedes-Benz (W111) 250SE Coupe

Coming soon to Bridge Classic Cars

Source: Collecting Cars. Photographs taken by Matt Collett

A gorgeous example of a coveted pillarless coupé, this 1966 Mercedes-Benz (W111) 250 SE Coupé benefits from the fitment of a more powerful 2.8-litre straight-six from a 280 SE of the same era. Finished in Metallic Blue with contrasting Fawn leather, the odometer reads 31,203 miles.

This is an original right-hand-drive example, completed in 1966, and was specified with the smooth four-speed automatic gearbox. Now paired with the slightly later ‘M130’ 2.8-litre engine, this W111 offers a desirable combination of usability and style. It is used as a regular run-around for its enthusiast owner, and is presented in on-the-button condition.

The vendor, a member of the Mercedes-Benz Club, has owned the car for around two years, and has covered nearly 2,000 miles in that period. He purchased the car from the individual responsible for the upkeep of the car throughout the previous 32-year period, and its previous owners are reported to include comedian David Walliams and author E. L. James. Regrettably, the car is only being offered for sale as the vendor has a serious illness – otherwise he would certainly be keeping it to enjoy for many more years.

The elegant bodywork presents very well, with crisp shut lines and no signs of any damage. Its smart Metallic Blue paint looks smooth and glossy all around the car, and even the internal painted areas such as the door shuts and boot area are in great condition. The vendor does note some minor age-related pitting to some of the chrome, but in general it looks superb. In the interests of transparency, he notes a small scratch to the front left light housing and front end, a small dent in the front bumper, and a previously repaired chip to the roof – as shown in the detailed photographs. The later 14-inch ‘Baroque’ alloy wheels are in near-perfect condition, and the car also comes with a set of hub caps, which the next owner could colour-code to the exterior.

Moving inside, the Fawn leather interior is believed to be original with a natural patina. The seats show some signs of age, with a small tear to the passenger seat and some slight sagging to the driver’s seat, though the carpets appear in very good order. The original steering wheel wears its age and miles very well, and the dashboard retains a period-correct radio. The wood veneer is showing signs of age in certain areas, as shown in the photos, but undoubtedly adds a wonderful sophistication to the interior. The vendor reports the windscreen wipers need servicing, and that the dimmer and full beam switch for the lights are functional but with reversed switches – both of which are straightforward to rectify.

The car was most recently serviced by Henrietta Mews Garage at approximately 31,100 indicated miles, and prior to this was serviced by well-known specialist John Furber. The 280 SE engine was fitted last year following the failure of the original motor, and is a fully serviced unit in excellent running order. As the under-bonnet photos show, the engine presents very well and is a fine upgrade.

The car is exempt from annual MOT testing on the basis of age, though its last test in April 2018 at 29,318 miles resulted in a first-time pass with no advisories whatsoever. The vendor notes the tyres were fitted recently but are not matching all round, and the car is sold with a tool kit and history file.

This Mercedes-Benz W111 Coupé is a stylish classic that is packed with 1960s charm and elegance. It is an eminently usable example, presented in very impressive overall condition, and benefiting from the stronger 2.8-litre straight-six. The rest of the 250 SE remains in highly original order, and it would make a beautiful addition to any collection – and a fine cruiser for any classic car enthusiast.