Mercedes-Benz 250SE Coupe Automatic

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The last of the hand-built Mercedes models, the fabulous W111 Series Cabriolets and Coupes made their debut in 1961 and marked the zenith of post-war Benz coachbuilding. 

Exquisitely proportioned and beautifully detailed thanks to the masterful eye of Paul Bracq, they were instant classics from the outset and their appeal has not waned since. Oozing restrained Teutonic opulence and engineered to bank vault standards, they dominate the traffic around them and make Italian exotica appear tinsel by comparison.

The straight-six engines with Bosch mechanical fuel injection initially came in three versions, the 115bhp 220SE, 150bhp 250SE and 160bhp 280SE, but from 1969 a 200bhp 3.5-litre V8 was also offered although these are hugely expensive today.

In any case, mere speed is not what these cars are about and they all have adequate performance, the 250SE (as here) being capable of hitting 60mph in a dignified 13 seconds with 120mph in reach if required. Only 5,259 250SE Coupes were made between 1965 and 1967, the vast majority in left-hand drive, making this car a rare beast indeed.

First registered in March 1967 it has already had extensive restoration work carried out though there are details still to finish. The bodywork is said to be in good condition, as is the chrome, while the black leather interior is described as fair although new carpets have been fitted.

Underneath, there has been much work on the running gear, with the brakes receiving a complete overhaul. Many engine components have also been replaced. We are told that the motor starts immediately and runs well. Though there is some work to be done to finish the car, the solid and rising values of these bespoke models makes further investment worthwhile.