Fantasy Junction

Description

***While sold to the current owner by Fantasy Junction, this particular car has not yet arrived into inventory, but is expected during May 2019***

1964 Mercedes Benz 220 SEB 6.3
s/n 11102110067959
Dark Bordeaux Red and Beige Grey with Cognac Leather Interior

In 1961, Mercedes-Benz changed their W111 and W112 generation cars continuing development of the famed “Adenauer” and Ponton cars. In two-door hardtop form, the clean and spacious design delivered the comfort of a closed car with the exhilaration of a convertible. The new cars incorporated a number of advanced technical and convenience features including independent suspension all around, fuel injection, and disc brakes. Powered by robust six cylinder engines, these elegant and luxurious cars were highly sought after and remain so today. In 1969, the line up was further enhanced by the 3.5 V8, which made a notable difference in performance and has since become an iconic version of this body design.

This particular factory sunroof coupe example is presented in dark Bordeaux red with beige grey roof (indicated to be the original exterior colors per the data plate) with leather palomino interior. The car appears to have been well cared for over the past fifty years and this is evident in several areas where original finishes and materials still remain. Some years ago, the six-cylinder engine was removed and an enterprising and thrill-seeking owner speculated on what Mercedes-Benz might have built, installing the powerful and highly desirable 6.3 liter M100 V8 engine originally created for the legendary 600. The conversion was professionally performed using a rebuilt engine with correct Mercedes-Benz parts and components, employing mechanical fuel-injection and a custom exhaust. During the conversion, particular care was given to upgrade motor mounts and front suspension in order to properly mount and distribute the power delivered from the robust and capable V8 engine. Additional work included a rebuilt and calibrated fuel-injection pump, new cold start valves and relays, new fuel lines and fuel filter, new oil cooler hoses, and new power steering pump seals. The car was further updated with new leather upholstery on the seats (other than the horizontal surface of the back seats) using correct leather and new carpeting. A new Bosch starter, battery, and factory bundt alloy wheels. The car was also updated with new door, taillight and headlight rubber seals, a new package tray, and floor mats. The front brakes were rebuilt in 2013 about 300km ago. At that time, all four shocks were replaced and the car received a general service including oil change and fluid level inspection.

Today the car presents nicely with driver quality paint and condition that invites enjoyable, stately touring without the fuss associated with a show car. The paint has good gloss and a pleasing finish overall with some minor blemishes. Much of the chrome plating has been recently done to a good standard, with the roof and window garnish moldings properly polished and tidy. Doors, hood, and trunk close tightly and hold good panel gaps overall. The glass, lenses, and trim present in similar condition to the overall look of the car, making a cohesive and satisfying presence one can immediately enjoy. Close inspection reveals some aging to the rubber weatherstripping around the windscreens, as well as some wear to the front windscreen.

The interior has been recently redone with leather properly sourced and matched to original Mercedes-Benz materials. The front seats and rear seat back were recovered, however the rear seat bottom was not reupholstered and shows some aging. The door panels, interior side panels, and headliner are nicely finished and the carpeting has been replaced using high quality materials. The dashboard has been refinished, housing very nice instruments showing clear dials and crisp lettering. The steering wheel rim has a number of cracks. The wood on the dashboard has been refinished with glossy coating, however is not to show standard and is showing some cracks on the top of the instrument binnacle and the trim at the base of the front windscreen. Inside the trunk compartment, the spare tire, jack, and correct rubber floor mat are clean and tidy, very likely original and un-restored, but still very serviceable.

The engine compartment is impressively tidy and the M100 V8 looks very much at home. The installation was done to high standards, with a factory appearance. Attention to period correct details appears to have been paid whenever possible and the engine and associated components are clean and correct. The engine compartment is tidy and properly maintained showing clean finishes reflective of original castings and hardware, with moderate updating to improve reliability. The underside of the car is clean and solid, with no noted significant structural corrosion noted.

The car is extraordinarily amusing to drive. The experience is dominated by the engine, which thanks to dual exhaust and glass packs, sounds suitably stout. It is not as loud as an American muscle car of the period, but is appreciably louder than a stock 6.3. Progress is considerably more brisk than a 300 SEL 6.3, and there is an urgency to the car’s manner which inspires a grin from the driver and is vaguely reminiscent of some of today’s performance sedans. The shifts from the gearbox are positive but smooth, the brakes are effective, and the overall feel of the car is coherent. The suspension is compliant and the steering light. The car can be placed with accuracy and any fears caused by the large V8 over the front wheels are quickly dispelled by a drive around the block. Coupled with the open air sensations and elegance of the pillarless construction, the performance of the car gives it a duality that will appeal to the enthusiast who also values understatement. At this time, both the fuel gauge and tachometer are inoperable.

The car is accompanied by several original factory documents, however many of these documents appear to be correct factory literature, but are not specific to this car. Documents include an original vinyl owners pouch with an original owners manual, service booklet (with entries and stamps), US authorized dealer locator booklet, original 220SE parts catalog, and multiple original Becker radio documents. Also included are various factory brochures, reference literature, newer parts catalogs, and some service records.

Nicely presented and wonderfully updated with the legendary 6.3 V8 engine, this factory sunroof coupe in wonderful colors and trim, is ready for enjoyable driving. Prepared with Mercedes-Benz parts and thoughtful engineering, this V8 hardtop is an enchanting vision of what might have been constructed at the factory had the power of the 6.3 liter V8 been combined with the classic lines of the 220 SE.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608