The Mercedes-Benz W112, sold as the 300SE, was the brand's range-topping model from 1961 to 1967. It shared its chassis and body with the W111 but offered a higher level of luxury, more chrome trim, and advanced mechanicals. Every W112 came standard with a 3.0L M189 aluminum inline-6 engine, power steering, and a sophisticated self-leveling air suspension.
Collectors prize the W112 for its blend of 1960s elegance and engineering prowess, particularly in the pillarless coupe and cabriolet forms. These two-door models are considered some of the most beautiful post-war Mercedes designs, featuring handcrafted interiors with extensive wood and leather. Their complexity, especially the air suspension and mechanical fuel injection, makes them a car for a dedicated enthusiast who appreciates the technology.
The market for the W112 is broad, with an average sale price of $66,380 across 23 recent transactions. Sedans can still be found for modest prices, but values climb sharply for the coupes and soar for the rare cabriolets. Excellent condition and originality are critical, as restoration costs for the unique W112 systems and trim are significant.
Buying Tips
- The air suspension is the single most expensive system to repair. Check that the car sits level, rises properly when started, and doesn't sag after being turned off.
- Rust is a major concern, so inspect the floor pans, trunk floor, rocker panels, and around the front and rear glass. Extensive chrome trim can hide serious corrosion underneath.
- The 3.0L M189 engine's Bosch mechanical fuel injection pump requires specialist knowledge for service and tuning. Ensure the engine runs smoothly without hesitation.
- Interior components like wood veneers and leather are extremely expensive to restore. Check for delaminating lacquer on the wood and assess all chrome trim for pitting and fit.
Prices range from $3,200 for project cars to $280,000 for pristine cabriolets.
293 Mercedes-Benz W112 vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 71 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Run a business in this market?
Get Hypercars OS
