Istorie
Mercedes-Benz's history reveals two different models that offered a 220SE version. The first is the W128 (1958-1960), the last Pontoon Mercedes, and the second is the W111, presented at the 1959 Frankfurt Motor Show. The car shown here is a W111 220SE Cabriolet upgraded with a Mercedes 300SE-based V8 engine.
Full description
Mercedes-Benz's history reveals two different models that offered a 220SE variant. The first is the W128 (1958-1960), the last Pontoon Mercedes, and the second is the W111, presented at the 1959 Frankfurt Motor Show. The car shown is a W111 220SE Cabriolet upgraded with a Mercedes 300SE-based V8 engine replacing the original 120hp 6 cylinder unit.
Mercedes-Benz debuted four new models at the Frankfurt Show in 1959 - the 220SE among them - all of which shared the same basic unitary-construction bodyshell and all-round independent suspension. Longer than their predecessors, the newcomers featured a wider radiator shell, wrap-around windscreen, wider rear window and vertically positioned twin headlamps. Power for these new cars evolved from a 2,195cc SOHC inline six producing 120 hp, to a 3,499cc V8 churning out 200 hp in the 1969-71 280SE 3.5.
This 220SE Convertible (chassis code: 111023), with a tan interior, was owned by someone for whom the increase of pace was not sufficient in its factory trim. Man's desire to go faster can drive him to do extraordinary things, and in this case, that involved dropping in the drivetrain and suspension from a 300SE 6.3 under the 220SE's body.
Not only was the engine and transmission upgraded, but the entire chassis, running gear, and suspension was completed to 300SE specifications, including 300SE 6.3 brakes, air suspension, and subframes. Attention to detail was paid at every turn, down to the upgraded fuel and cooling systems.
Mercedes-Benz has built only 2,729 W111 220SE Cabriolets.
This car has covered 53,162 km.
