1967 Mercedes-Benz 300SE Convertible

There were fewer than 100 examples of the USA bound Mercedes-Benz 300SE Cabriolet built for 1966 and 1967. This example has a Becker Grand Prix radio, burled walnut dash, and full Roser leather interior that is original to the car. It even has factory fitted luggage. This car has a two-position air suspension, factory Kuhlmeister A/C with tinted windows and clutch fan.

1967 was the last year for wide white-wall tires. The car has two piece hubcaps riding on 14-inch wheels. There is a 4.08 limited slip rear and a mechanical fuel injection system.

This is the last of the great 6-cylinder 3-liter 2 door Mercedes built from 1952 through 1967. It was preceded by the 300S and 300SL models in which construction quality, style, and engineering superiority had no price constraint.

This car is usually exhibited but otherwise won at Mercedes Club National and Regional Concours and in 2008 it won the Chairman's Award at the Hilton Head Concours, after driving to the event from Philadelphia.

The Mercedes-Benz 300SE was powered by a six-cylinder engine that displaced 183 cubic-inches. It was available as a Sedan or Convertible and was lavishly equipped with amenities such as air suspension, power steering, and automatic transmission. The convertible body-style was soon dropped, leaving just the sedan. A convertible was still part of Mercedes-Benz lineup and could be found in the 250 Series for just under $10,000. The 300SE Sedan set the buyer back $8050.

The overhead cam six-cylinder engine produced 185 (SAE) horsepower and 205 foot-pounds of torque.

In 1965, Mercedes-Benz had introduced an updated version of their 300 model. It shared several of its design cues with its stable mates and was powered by a fuel-injected, 3-liter engine. The 300SE was replaced in 1968 by a long wheelbase 300SEL which had a smaller 2.8-liter engine.

By Daniel Vaughan | Feb 2011