1966 Mercedes-Benz 220 SE Cabriolet
Registration no. GJT 119D
Chassis no. 111023-22-077830
Engine no. 127.984-22-003677

In 1958 Mercedes-Benz's '220' range was updated with a fuel-injected version of the 2.2-litre overhead-camshaft six, becoming the 220 SE. Maximum power increased from 106 to 115bhp, and while top speed remained unchanged at around 100mph there was a useful improvement in acceleration, the 0-60mph time reducing by two seconds. By the time production ceased in November 1960, fewer than 2,000 220 SE Coupé and Cabriolet models had been manufactured, and today these classically elegant and luxuriously equipped Grand Tourers are highly prized.

This automatic transmission Mercedes-Benz 220 SE Cabriolet was first registered as 'EAN 60D' on 2nd April 1965 to a Robert Murdoch, passing to the second owner, a Mr Bannerman of Kent, in 1973. The current vendor purchased the Mercedes from Mr Bannerman in January 1977 and registered it on private plate ('7 LAU') the following year. The 1977 purchase invoice is on file and the car also comes with its original book pack and (copy) old-style buff logbook.

Dated January 1977, a hand-written note in the file from Mr Bannerman to the current vendor confirms the following 'extras': leather upholstery; power assisted steering; front headrests; centre armrest; wing mirrors; 300 SE wheelarches and body trim lines; additional dual-tone horn; Lucas long-range lights (separate switch); and a Motorola short-wave radio. The original colour scheme was green with blue soft-top and natural hide upholstery (a note on file states that the hood was replaced during Mr Bannerman's ownership). In 1978 the car was repainted in its current silver livery and new carpets fitted, while the interior has been re-Connollised at some time. A stainless steel exhaust was fitted in 2016.

Additional documentation includes 13 MoT certificates for the period 2004-2019; a V5C Registration Certificate; and the original service book, stamped up to 1979 at 74,036 miles (the current odometer reading is 76,050 miles). Owned by the vendor for 45 years, the car has been run up regularly but used sparingly and been well cared for. The Mercedes is now registered 'GJT 119D' after the vendor removed his cherished plate. Age and the desire to travel are the reasons for the sale.