The Mercedes-Benz W111, produced from 1959 to 1971, is famous for its 'Heckflosse' or 'fintail' styling. While the sedans introduced advanced safety features like front and rear crumple zones, it's the Paul Bracq-styled coupes and cabriolets that attract most collectors. These two-door models did away with the pronounced fins for a more timeless, elegant design and offered a range of inline-6 engines, culminating in the desirable 3.5L V8 in 1969.
Collectors prize the W111 coupes and cabriolets for their hand-built quality, luxurious wood and leather interiors, and pillarless design. They represent an era of peak craftsmanship for Mercedes-Benz. The later 280 SE 3.5 models, with their powerful V8 engine, are considered the ultimate versions and command the highest prices. Their combination of classic looks, comfort, and usable performance makes them excellent grand touring cars even today.
The market for the W111 is highly dependent on body style. Sedans remain an affordable entry point, while coupes carry a significant premium. Cabriolets sit at the top of the market, with exceptional examples, particularly the 280 SE 3.5, regularly selling for over $250,000. An average sale price near $79,000 reflects the strong demand for high-quality coupes and cabriolets.
Buying Tips
- Rust is the biggest enemy. Thoroughly inspect the floors, trunk, rocker panels, and the areas around the headlights and wheel wells.
- Interior wood restoration is very expensive. Check all wood trim for cracking, delamination, and sun fading.
- Factory cabriolets are far more valuable than sedans or coupes converted into convertibles. Verify the car's originality.
- The complex hydraulic system for the cabriolet top can be costly to repair. Test its operation and check for leaks.
- While the inline-6 engines are robust, the later 3.5L V8 offers more power. Check all engines for service records and signs of oil leaks.
Prices range from $550 for project cars to over $425,000 for top-spec cabriolets.
1,068 Mercedes-Benz W111 vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 33 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
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