Vehicle Description
Chassis No. 112.023.12.007001
Engine No. 189.987.12.000314
Transmission No. 006648
Mercedes-Benz's "W112" series made a groundbreaking debut in March
1962 at the 32nd Geneva International Motor Show, when the 300 SE
was unveiled in both Coupe and Cabriolet variants. Crafted under
the visionary eye of the renowned designer Paul Bracq, the
Cabriolet emerged as more than just an automobile; it stood as a
technologically advanced grand tourer adorned with a modern design
philosophy that boldly departed from the styling trends of the
1950s. In particular, the Cabriolet showcased a design that was
distinctive and forward-facing, eschewing the dated pointed,
upwardly-raked fintails, contributing significantly to the
Cabriolet's enduring desirability and contemporary appeal.
As the zenith of the S-Class series, the 300 SE Cabriolet found
favor among discerning buyers the world over. Its elevated status
within the Cabriolet series was attributed to a diverse range of
features that were considered uncommon in most cars of its time.
Mercedes' commitment to balancing firm road holding with a
comfortable ride was evident in the 300 SE, incorporating
independent rear suspension for optimized ground contact.
Furthermore, the advanced pneumatic suspension, equipped with a
load-sensing system, automatically adjusted the ride height to
counteract any weight in the trunk, exemplifying Mercedes-Benz's
commitment to cutting-edge technology and an uncompromising
approach to luxury.
The early history of this 300 SE notes service records from J.
Novelli Mercedes-Benz Garage in Cannes, France. The first 8,000
miles were spent in that sunny coastal climate before crossing the
pond to Chicago, Illinois in mid-1965. Loeber Motors, the still
thriving Mercedes-Benz Dealer, tended to the car until 1968 when it
again crossed the Atlantic and returned to its mother country and
was serviced by Eschler Motors in Germany. By the early 1970s, it
returned to Florida before arriving home into the hands of its
current consignor's father in 1980. Now in Ohio, it was driven
sparingly over the following years as its new long-term caretaker
aimed to restore the car to its original glory. Over the following
years, it began to see far more idle hours than road miles, but
eventually, the restoration began, utilizing local craftsmen in the
Cleveland, Ohio area. However, after a series of fits and starts at
the hands of experts in metal work, but lacking the unique
knowledge required for just such a driveline and body, the owner's
son took over ownership of the car and after speaking with
long-standing members of the Mercedes-Benz Club of America, he
committed to a full restoration as a tribute to his father's
passion for the car. The 300 SE was moved to the shop of noted
Mercedes-Benz specialist, Bill Hahn of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and
an "open checkbook" approach to the restoration began in
earnest.
Benefiting from an extensive recent restoration by Hahn, this 300
SE Cabriolet has been meticulously brought back to its factory
specification of 050 White over 204 Light Red Leather upholstery
with its correct livery enhancing the 300 SE elegant styling cues.
It began as a high-quality example with original registration
records of the vehicle dating back to the 1970s. The ground-up
restoration, spanning seven years and exceeding $400,000,
reportedly spared no expense or detail. Nearly every component on
the vehicle was either refurbished or purchased new from
Mercedes-Benz Classic. The first phase, completed in 2014,
primarily focused on bodywork, included hundreds of hours dedicated
to blocking and sanding each body panel. The chrome on the vehicle
was removed, re-chromed, and reinstalled with precision. The second
phase, starting in 2017, concentrated on mechanical work, including
a complete driveline overhaul. The "M189" engine was completely
rebuilt, and both the transmission and rear end were restored to
their original factory specifications. Completed in 2023, this
Cabriolet represents a commitment to historical accuracy and
attention to detail rarely seen in restorations of this model and
includes factory literature, accessories, and safety equipment.
