1965 Mercedes-Benz 300SE (W112) Cabriolet

One of just 78 factory-built, right-hand drive examples supplied new to the UK, this exceptional 1965 Mercedes-Benz 300 SE Cabriolet represents one of the finest expressions of Mercedes-Benz engineering and luxury from the 1960s. Finished in elegant Mercedes-Benz Grey Metallic over a beautifully appointed Dark Red leather interior, the car is offered in outstanding condition following extensive restoration and meticulous recommissioning, with a credible 42,890 miles recorded.

Produced between 1962 and 1967, the W112 Cabriolet served as Mercedes-Benz' flagship model during the period between the legendary 300 'Adenauer' and the arrival of the 600. Combining timeless Paul Bracq styling with the sophisticated M189 fuel-injected straight-six engine derived from the 300SL, self-levelling air suspension, hydraulic power steering and uncompromising build quality, the 300SE remains one of the marque's most desirable post-war grand tourers.

This particular example was manufactured in December 1964 before being supplied new to the United Kingdom in January 1965. Although little is known of its earliest history, the documented story resumes when the car returned to the UK from the United States in September 2004.

Between March 2006 and May 2007, the Mercedes underwent a comprehensive, photographically documented restoration to factory specification. The work included a bare-metal repaint in its present Mercedes-Benz Grey Metallic, a complete retrim of the interior in sumptuous Dark Red leather, the fitment of a new matching hood, and the installation of a replacement factory-specification M189 engine and a new radiator. While no longer matching numbers, the replacement unit is of the correct type and specification, with supporting documentation confirming its installation during the restoration.

Further significant expenditure followed in 2012, when extensive work was carried out to the exhaust, fuel, steering, braking and electrical systems to return the car to Mercedes-Benz factory standards. An MOT from that year records a credible mileage of 39,189 miles. Thereafter, the car benefited from ongoing maintenance by respected Mercedes-Benz specialist, Steve Redfearn, ensuring it continued to receive expert care.

In 2023-2024, the car was entrusted to The Classic Car Company for a comprehensive appraisal and full recommissioning programme. Working in consultation with Steve Redfearn, their workshop carried out an extensive overhaul of the sophisticated air suspension system, together with attention to the engine, braking system, steering and numerous other mechanical components. The underside was professionally dry-ice cleaned before being re-protected, while all exterior chrome bumpers were re-plated to their original brilliance. Finally, the paintwork received a meticulous machine polish and professional detailing, resulting in its current deep, lustrous finish.

Most recently, the suspension master valve has been professionally rebuilt by a specialist, while the underside has been resealed to provide continued protection. As with any hand-built Mercedes-Benz of this era, corrosion prevention remains important, and this example presents with very little evidence of corrosion thanks to careful restoration and continued maintenance.

Mechanically, the 300SE is equipped with its correct four-speed automatic transmission and hydraulic power steering. The steering system was replaced in 2016, while in 2024 the correct low-pressure power steering hoses were installed as part of the recommissioning works.

The car is offered with an extensive history file documenting its restoration and ongoing maintenance, together with its spare wheel, factory tool kit, jack, two fitted car covers (one indoor and one outdoor), and a box containing replaced original components from the recent recommissioning work. A detailed summary of the significant mechanical works undertaken is available to interested parties upon request.

Beautifully presented, mechanically sorted and one of only 78 right-hand drive UK-market examples produced, this rare W112 cabriolet offers an exceptional opportunity to acquire one of Mercedes-Benz's most elegant and technically advanced grand tourers. Equally at home on concours lawns, grand touring events or simply enjoyed with the hood lowered, it represents a wonderful combination of rarity, craftsmanship and effortless open-air motoring.