Mercedes-Benz W111 buyer's guide

Fintail sedans, and the elegant pillarless coupes and cabriolets.

Years: 1959–1971 · Models: 220, 220S, 220SE and 230S fintail sedans; 220SE, 250SE, 280SE and 280SE 3.5 coupes and cabriolets

Overview

The W111 began as the top fintail sedan of 1959 and is now remembered chiefly for the coupe and cabriolet introduced in 1961 — pillarless, wood-lined cars that carried the formula into 1971, ending with the 3.5-litre V8. The sedans share the fintail family's structure and running gear, which makes them straightforward to keep; the two-door cars are coachbuilt in feel and are priced accordingly.

Engines

Six-cylinder engines throughout the sedans: carburetted (220, 220S, 230S) and fuel-injected (220SE). The coupes and cabriolets used the injected 2.2, 2.5, and 2.8 sixes, and the 3.5-litre M116 V8 for 1970–1971.

What to check

• On coupes and cabriolets, the dashboard wood and the chrome: both are extensive, specific to these cars, and expensive to restore properly.
• On cabriolets, the folding-top frame and canvas, and rust in the top well and under the rear seat.
• Structural rust in floors, sills, and jacking points on all W111s — the sedans especially, as their values justify less repair.
• The mechanical fuel injection pump on SE models: hot starting and fuel in the oil are the warning signs.
• Whether a coupe is the earlier high-grille or the later, more sought-after low-grille design, and that its grille matches its build date.

Values

The 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet stands at the top of the whole W111 range, with the 3.5 coupe and the low-grille six-cylinder cabriolets behind it. Originality and condition carry these cars — a correct, documented car in its factory colours is worth substantially more than a prettier car with the wrong engine or trim.

Buying tips

Use the data card to confirm engine, colours, and options before paying for them. On any cabriolet, lift the rear seat and inspect the top well; on any W111, budget for the injection pump if its history is unknown.

See the 130 W111 cars currently listed.