Mercedes-Benz L319 – First Registered 1963 | Original Paint | Authentic 1960s Camper Conversion | Finnish Coast Guard History

An exceptionally preserved Mercedes-Benz L319, first registered in 1963, featuring original paintwork, an authentic camper conversion dating from the 1960s, a fascinating Finnish Coast Guard history, and just 60,000 kilometres showing on the odometer.

It is with a heavy heart that I am offering this extraordinary Mercedes-Benz L319 for sale, solely due to health reasons.

First registered in 1963, this 1900ccm petrol-powered Mercedes originates from Finland and has survived more than six decades in a remarkably authentic and well-preserved condition.

What makes this particular vehicle truly special is the combination of its fascinating history, original paintwork, beautifully preserved period camper interior, and outstanding overall condition.

A Fascinating History – Finnish Coast Guard Service

According to its known history, the Mercedes was originally purchased by the Finnish Coast Guard, where it was kept in a heated garage, ready to respond whenever required.

After its service with the Coast Guard, the vehicle passed into private ownership.

Sometime during the 1960s, its new owner converted the Mercedes into a camper van for family holidays. The exact year of the conversion is unknown.

Remarkably, the vehicle still retains its original paintwork. The only areas repainted during the 1960s were those covering the former Finnish Coast Guard insignia.

This extraordinary level of originality is one of the vehicle's most appealing characteristics.

The Mercedes subsequently served as a family holiday camper, travelling during the summer months with its owner and children. For the remainder of each year, it was carefully stored in a garage.

Original Finnish documentation is no longer available, but the vehicle itself preserves a remarkable amount of its history through its original features, paintwork, and period camper conversion.

A Remarkable 1960s Camper Conversion

The camper conversion, carried out sometime during the 1960s, is a wonderful example of period craftsmanship, ingenuity, and thoughtful engineering.

Unlike a modern recreation, this is an authentic historic conversion that has survived in remarkably well-preserved condition.

The interior offers three travelling seats, upholstered in matching fabric, and sleeping accommodation for three people.

A cleverly designed sofa converts into a double bed with an additional upper bunk, while storage space is incorporated beneath the sleeping area.

The kitchenette features a gas cooker and an Electrolux refrigerator operating on 220V, 12V, or gas.

Even the smallest details demonstrate the remarkable care and imagination invested in the original conversion.

The kitchen drawers, for example, incorporate ingenious wooden safety catches that prevent them from opening while driving. Each drawer must be lifted slightly before it can be pulled out.

The interior retains its period linoleum flooring, original rugs, curtains, and specially designed fittings that allow even the front windscreen to be covered for privacy.

Other features include:

- Swivelling front passenger seat
- Custom-made entrance steps with specially designed brackets
- Separate enclosed compartment for a toilet
- Custom-made exterior awning
- 220V electrical system with external mains connection
- Tow hitch
- Nearly new summer tyres

The overall impression is that of a beautifully conceived and carefully preserved 1960s camper, full of charming and practical details.

Original Paint, Authentic Patina and Exceptional Preservation

Perhaps the most remarkable feature of this Mercedes-Benz is its authenticity.

The original paintwork remains preserved, apart from the areas where the former Coast Guard markings were covered during the 1960s.

The vehicle has never lost its historic character through a complete repaint.

Instead, it proudly displays the natural patina acquired over more than sixty years.

The condition of the vehicle is impressive not only in terms of its bodywork but also underneath, where its preservation is equally remarkable.

With approximately 60,000 kilometres showing on the odometer, the Mercedes remains in excellent mechanical condition.

The camper interior is exceptionally clean, intact, and well preserved, retaining its original period atmosphere.

Stepping inside is like travelling back in time.

This is not simply a restored classic vehicle. It is an authentic time capsule, preserving a remarkable chapter of Mercedes-Benz and European camper history.

A Collector's Mercedes-Benz with Genuine Character

Historic commercial vehicles with interesting provenance are always appealing, but finding an example that combines original paintwork, an authentic 1960s camper conversion, and such remarkable preservation is something particularly special.

This Mercedes-Benz L319 offers exactly that combination.

Its reported Finnish Coast Guard background adds another fascinating dimension to its history, while the ingenious camper conversion tells the story of a family who transformed a working vehicle into a companion for summer adventures.

The vehicle attracts attention wherever it goes and is a wonderful presence at classic car gatherings and historic vehicle events.

For an enthusiast or collector who appreciates authenticity, originality, craftsmanship, and the stories behind historic vehicles, this Mercedes represents a very special opportunity.

It is my sincere wish that this remarkable Mercedes will find a new custodian who will appreciate and preserve its unique character for years to come.

First registration: 1963
Camper conversion: 1960s (exact year unknown)
Engine: 1900ccm Petrol
Odometer reading: Approximately 60,000 km
Paintwork: Original, with limited period repainting over former Coast Guard markings
Original Finnish documentation: Not available

Serious enquiries from collectors and enthusiasts are welcome.