1967 Mercedes-Benz 300SE

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.

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