The “fintail” Mercedes-Benz 220 SE set a new standard for middle-class luxury when it was introduced in 1959, replacing the “ponton” car. Production of the pillarless coupe and convertible began in late-1960. The coupe made its debut in Stuttgart in February 1961, with the convertible following later at the Frankfurt show. In either form, these were elegant and expensive motor cars with the superior engineering and luxurious outfitting that both American and European buyers came to expect from the marque that was producing models as stately as the 600 Pullman and as sporting as the 230 SL.

This must certainly be one of the finest coupe examples of the 220 SE available, not only because of its presentation, but also because of its outfitting. With Bosch mechanical fuel injection, disc brakes, and power steering, it was one of the most sophisticated family cars available in its day. The color combination of Light Ivory yellow with a black hardtop is original to the car, as per the Mercedes-Benz data tag, and it looks sensational, particularly as it is offset with the matching yellow wheels. The Behr air conditioning on the interior is not only of the period, but it was likewise specified as original equipment for this very car, at a time when such accessories were especially expensive. Finally, and perhaps most attractively, this 220 SE was specified with a four-speed manual transmission, as it is to this day.

In the intervening years since its delivery, the car has clearly benefitted from restoration work, both on the exterior and the inside, where the upholstery was re-done in brown leather. The interior is especially inviting, complete with an optional factory-specified Becker Europa radio and clock. All in all, the presentation is quite impressive and professional throughout, although imperfections are visible cosmetically in various areas upon much closer inspection. Nevertheless, this is undoubtedly a car of wonderful character and presence, particularly with the rarity and desirability that comes from such original factory equipment as a four-speed transmission, air conditioning, and wonderful original colors.