value of 250SE coupe? pros and cons?

[findude]

I'm looking at maybe buying a 250SE Coupe. The car is supposedly a 1965 (early production?). The car is in excellent condition (probably a 2- if you are familiar with the rating scale) that could be brought up to a strong 2 or 2+ with relatively little work. It was professionally restored about 15 years ago and was done properly. This is a zero rust, no issues coupe that runs fine--I'd drive it cross country tomorrow if I had to. It is highly optioned: 4 speed manual, factory AC, Euro delivery spec (big headlamps), original radio, leather, sunroof, factory tinted glass, etc. I think the only option this car does not have is the automatic transmission.

What is such a beast worth?

Also, I have heard that the 250SE engine is the one to avoid when looking for a 111 coupe or cabriolet. Any insights on that?

[Q45Denver]

Without seeing it, I would guess between $10 and 15 thousand. Sounds like it has a lot going for it. It wouldn't worry about the engine to much but have it checked out by someone who knows them.

Originally Posted by findude

I'm looking at maybe buying a 250SE Coupe. The car is supposedly a 1965 (early production?). The car is in excellent condition (probably a 2- if you are familiar with the rating scale) that could be brought up to a strong 2 or 2+ with relatively little work. It was professionally restored about 15 years ago and was done properly. This is a zero rust, no issues coupe that runs fine--I'd drive it cross country tomorrow if I had to. It is highly optioned: 4 speed manual, factory AC, Euro delivery spec (big headlamps), original radio, leather, sunroof, factory tinted glass, etc. I think the only option this car does not have is the automatic transmission.

What is such a beast worth?

Also, I have heard that the 250SE engine is the one to avoid when looking for a 111 coupe or cabriolet. Any insights on that?

[billrei]

Very early M129 motors had a problem with ring sealing. This was later corrected by Mercedes. If the motor does not smoke and has good compression then it should be fine. Mercedes used a heat exchanger on these cars for cooling the oil rather than an oil cooler. These units are bolted next to the left side motor mount. They are prone to leaking and many have been by passed to avoid the issue. One positive is that the M129 motor is the last production Mercedes motor to have cross drilled crankshaft journals for superior lubrication.

[PagodaLover]

Sounds like a great car!!!! I know they are pretty.

Cant help regarding the value of it. I do know that the correct answer is however much the seller can get you to want to pay for it!!

Good luck.

[halman2228]

Here ya go findude:

http://www.callamer.com/~pmhack/mercedes/250sec65.htm

According to the owner of this one, only 1,205 were made. I wonder how many are still around...?

Buy it.

Kevin

[67coupegroup]

I have a 67 250se that is in a slow restoration process. I've watched ebay and several other sites religiously for 111 coupe cars and parts for about two years. My conclusion is that the early 111 coupes seldom get over 10K unless they are cabriolets. The later 280's and 300se tend too get a much better price. If the car you're looking at is truly a 2 then it is worth every penny of 15K in my opinion. To take a lesser car and do the restoration is costly and you may have to compromise on replacement parts and in the end will cost more than the 15K.

If it's a good solid car and you find that you have been smitten with the vintage mercedes affliction there's nothing you can do but give in.

Good luck...I'm betting we'll see you here on the forum soon.

[ctaylor738]

The only downside is that these cars are very hard to sell - everyone wants the cabs. There is a drop-dead gorgeous 1968 250SE coupe for sale by a very fussy collector in the DC area. It's a 4-speed. Drop me a line if you want the contact info.

[diametricalbenz]

My mechanic just serviced a red cabrio and it apparently sold for $21k. It was in storage for years and currently incomplete but a very nice car nonetheless.