Lot details
Registration No: DSX136C
Chassis No: 11202322007418
Mot Expiry: None

Unveiled in April 1961, the flagship 'Fintail' - the 300SE - was given its own type designation of W112. Powered by a Bosch fuel-injected M189 2996cc straight-six engine (derived from that of the legendary 300SL 'Gullwing'), the luxurious newcomer was equipped with air suspension, four-speed automatic transmission, power steering, four-wheel disc brakes, leather upholstery and burr walnut veneers as standard. Initially available in four-door Saloon guise only, Mercedes-Benz's range topper could be had as a two-door Coupe or Convertible from March 1962 onwards. A decidedly handsome design (roof up or down), the 300SE Cabriolet enjoyed a notably pliant ride and effortless performance. Fearsomely expensive, the rakish soft-top accounted for just 708 sales between March 1962 and December 1967 (though, a mere 92 of those were to right-hand drive specification).

An original right-hand drive 300SE cabriolet, chassis 11202322007418 nevertheless spent some time in America before being imported to the UK by its previous keeper during September 2004. Treated to an extensive `bare metal' restoration thereafter, work had yet to be completed when the Mercedes-Benz entered the current ownership in February 2012. Entrusted to Rees Bros of Aldershot for finishing, the four-seater had attention paid to its radiator, exhaust, fuel system, steering, brakes and electrics at a cost of some £13,531.97. Having spent 160.5 hours on the project, Rees Bros wrote an insurance valuation report on 20th June 2012 which gave the following condition ratings: `Bodywork & Paintwork - Excellent, Mechanical - Excellent. The engine has been overhauled. Interior Trim - Excellent. The trim and woodwork have been fully restored. Chromework & Electric - Excellent'. The vendor now assesses `DSX 136C' to be variously `good' (engine, electrical equipment, automatic transmission) or `excellent' (bodywork, paintwork, interior trim) and is offering it for sale complete numerous restoration photographs, sundry spare trim items and a fresh MOT certificate.