Chassis No. 128.030.10.002703

Engine No. 180.983.10.000244

Body No. A128.030.10.00309

This handsome, low-production open tourer from Mercedes-Benz marked both an endpoint in the company's model history and a beginning. November 1960 marked the conclusion of production of the "ponton" body style, which pioneered unitized body construction at Mercedes-Benz. In the case of this 1960 Mercedes-Benz 220 SE Cabriolet, the future was realized beneath its hood, where its six-cylinder engine is supplied with fuel by an early version of the mechanical fuel injection system developed by Robert Bosch GmbH.

Research on Mercedes-Benz production figures shows that this Cabriolet is only one of only 1,112 Cabriolets produced. Equipped with the Bosch two-plunger injection unit, the "M127" inline six-cylinder engine, with a single overhead camshaft, produced 134 horsepower at 5,000 rpm from a displacement of 2.2-liters-impressive output for its day. The fuel-injected engine is mated to a column-shifted four-speed manual transmission.

Finished in Cream, this lovely 220 SE Cabriolet has a Bamboo leather interior. Inside, the driver is welcomed by an optional ivory-colored steering wheel and matching column-mounted gear selector. The elegant Madagascar Ebony dashboard is complete with a Blaupunkt AM/FM/SW radio, with the rich wood trim extending up around the windshield and across the tops of the doors. Additional features include the auxiliary driving lights mounted to either side of the prominent radiator grille, a fender-mounted radio antenna, bumper over riders, and 13-inch wheels furnished with color-keyed chrome hubcaps shod with whitewall tires.

In March 2024, the car benefits from nearly $4,500 spent to replace the carpets, install the door panels, seat belts, and wood trim, along with changing the engine oil. It is complete with an era-appropriate three-piece luggage set, convertible top boot, and jack. Representing a technical marvel of its day, this 1960 Mercedes-Benz 220 SE Cabriolet remains a charming example that will surely be a delight as a luxurious rarity.