Mercedes-Benz W112 300 SE Cabriolet

The Mercedes-Benz W112 300 SE

The exact communication designation of the W112 model series is ‘Mercedes-Benz 300 SE’. This was available in two saloon variants, as a cabriolet and as a coupé. Around 5,102 examples of the 300 SE were built between 1961 and 1965. One particular difference between these vehicles was the design of the boot. This was provided with chrome-framed lettering and was considered the exclusive detail of the W112 series at the time. All vehicles were equipped with a six-cylinder engine with mechanical intake manifold injection, which produced 160 hp. The M189 engine, originally from the legendary 300 SL, weighed around 40 kg less than its grey cast iron predecessors thanks to its light alloy engine block and cylinder head. This reduction in the front axle load resulted in improved handling. Technical achievements such as air suspension and power steering ensured ideal driving comfort. The basic price for a 300 SE at that time was around DM 25,000. The long version 300 SE cost around DM 28,000. Depending on the optional extras, such as the installation of central locking or rear compartment heating, the price could rise to over DM 35,000.

In addition to the classic saloon, the W112 was also offered as a coupé and cabriolet. However, these variants only entered the Mercedes range one year later, in 1962. In contrast to the saloons, the coupés had no rear fin and were equipped with a lower roofline. This was intended to give the coupés more elegance and make them appear more timeless. This elegant timelessness enabled the two-door coupés to keep pace with the successor models. Today, the 112s are very popular in the classic car trade due to their rarity. The Cabriolet remained in the programme until December 1967, four years shorter than the W111 Cabriolets. Only 708 W112 Cabriolets were built in total.

About the vehicle offered here:

This W112 was first delivered in the yellow colour combination as a one-off to the Kühler Behr company in 1962 and served Mrs Behr as a personal vehicle. She registered it for the first time on 31 July 1962. In 1969, it was sold on to a private individual from Weinsberg, who owned the car until 1971. In April of the same year, he sold the car to a businessman in the television and radio equipment sector from Stuttgart. Out of love and passion for his vehicle, he undertook all the necessary maintenance work. Together with the 300 SE, he made it into a local newspaper article in which he proudly reported that he had never broken down. He also took part in many classic car events and quickly became a favourite with visitors. It celebrated its greatest success in 1983, when the vehicle achieved overall victory at the Concours d'Èlégance in Stuttgart. Pictures from this time are available.

After several decades, the classic car enthusiast finally parted with the beautiful W112 Cabriolet in 2008 by selling it to us. A few years later, planning began for an in-depth data card restoration. This began in November 2010 with the signed offer from the subsequent owner. The restoration, which was completed in April 2011 and cost €290,000 at the time, received a grade of 1 in a subsequent expert report. Comprehensive restoration documentation, including a description and pictures of every stage of the work, is available. The renowned collector kept the perfect vehicle for 13 years without ever driving it, which is why we bought it back in 2024 with a mileage of only 20 KM since the full restoration. After a meticulous inspection and preparation, this unique W112 300 SE is for sale again.

Our sales staff will be happy to answer any detailed questions you may have. Please note that vehicle viewings are only possible by prior appointment.