1995 Mercedes-Benz E 220 Cabriolet

Lot details
Registration No: M385HBD
Chassis No: WDB1240622C208254
Mot Expiry: Aug 2009

Launched originally in 1985 to replace the successful and long-running W123 series of mid-range Mercedes-Benz cars, the W124 series built on the reputation of thorough design and meticulous construction which had characterised its predecessor but added a dash more driver appeal to the recipe. Featuring a particularly sophisticated multi-link rear suspension design to give an excellent handling and ride compromise, the W124 was launched as a saloon and the range gradually expanded to include a T-Series Estate (1986), CE Coupe (1987) and then finally CE Convertible bodystyle in 1992. Virtually unique in the market place as a full four-seater convertible which demanded no compromises from its rear seat passengers (think Jaguar XJS Convertible) the Convertible was an immediate hit and with limited right hand drive production long waiting lists accompanied the model throughout its market life. Almost immediately after the introduction of the Convertible, Mercedes-Benz re-designated all its mid-range models as E-Class as part of a range-wide attempt to simplify what had become a very confusing range of engine size based model designations. Accompanied by some minor exterior restyling and new engines in certain models, the Convertible range was also expanded with the introduction of a 220 4-cylinder model to join the 320 6-cylinder. In this form production of the Convertible model continued long after the saloon had been supplanted by an all-new model in 1995 until the introduction of its CLK Cabriolet replacement in 1998.

Finished in black with black leather upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "good" condition with regard to its 2.2 litre engine, automatic transmission, electrical equipment, interior trim, bodywork and paintwork. Although, there is no paperwork on file to substantiate a rumour that `M385 HBD' was first owned by Earl Spencer, there is an accompanying invoice to show how much the second keeper paid for it on 14th November 1996 (£36,500). Said to possess not only its original service book but supporting bills, this striking Mercedes-Benz convertible is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until August 2009.