Description
Mercedes-Benz 250 SE Cabriolet | 1966
Highlights:
– Originally a US-market car, now Belgian-registered
– Period-correct euro-spec updates including lights and bumpers
– Converted air conditioning system and updated servicing
– Electrics and convertible top functional
– Six-cylinder engine and automatic transmission
The seller offers for sale this 1966 Mercedes-Benz 250 SE Cabriolet, an elegant open-top grand tourer from the W111 series, equipped with a 2.5-litre six-cylinder engine and automatic transmission. This example, originally delivered to the United States, has been with the seller’s family in Belgium since 2018. It is offered as a well-maintained, usable classic. Not a concours vehicle, but a presentable and road-ready car.
The car has received several upgrades and service items in recent years. These include the conversion of US-spec elements (bumpers, turn signals, sealed beams) to correct European specification, refreshing the electric window mechanisms, and a fluid change including gearbox, coolant, and brake systems. The car also received new spark plugs, belts, valve clearance adjustment, and front inertia seatbelts. The air conditioning system was converted to modern R134a refrigerant with new lines and dryer.
Cosmetically, the car retains its original character and shows minor signs of age and wear. Paintwork is largely glossy with no signs of orange peel, but minor dents and scratches are present, particularly around the trunk lid and on the front left wheel cover. There is a badge discrepancy—currently badged as a 280 SE—but the VIN and engine number confirm it is a genuine 250 SE.
Inside, the cabin is clean and well-kept. There are only slight signs of wear, with the original leather upholstery and wood trim appearing well preserved. The dashboard, clock, map light, interior lighting, gauges, and the original Becker radio are reported to be working correctly. The soft top remains in good condition and closes well.
Mechanically, the car is solid. The engine and transmission do show some oil seepage, which is common for the model and age but does not affect current drivability.
The Mercedes W111 series cabriolets are widely regarded as some of the finest open-top luxury vehicles of the 1960s. Introduced in 1959 and continuing through the end of the 1960s, these cars combined Mercedes-Benz engineering with handcrafted coachwork and understated elegance. The 250 SE, produced between 1965 and 1967, was fitted with the M129 2.5-litre straight-six engine delivering around 150 hp—enough for confident cruising, especially when paired with the optional automatic transmission.
Unlike many cars of the period, the 250 SE Cabriolet came with fully retractable power windows and a power-operated soft top (in later years), and was assembled with a high level of craftsmanship and refinement. Mercedes only produced a few thousand cabriolet versions, making them far rarer than the sedan models.
Many of these cars were sold new in North America, where demand for cabriolets remained strong into the late 1960s. While US-market cars had subtle styling and equipment differences, most enthusiasts prefer the cleaner look of the European versions, as restored on this example.
Values for W111 cabriolets have risen steadily in recent years due to their timeless looks, mechanical durability, and collectibility. While not fully restored, this 250 SE presents as a reliable driver with tasteful upgrades and originality intact. It is an opportunity to enjoy classic Mercedes-Benz luxury in a model that continues to hold strong appeal among collectors and casual enthusiasts alike.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Walloon Brabant, Belgium.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Belgian registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
