Back <--> Next Photo 1960 Mercedes-Benz 220SE Convertible. Black with tan leather and burled walnut trim. 4-speed stick shift. vin: 12803010002514. 80,000 miles from new. (Not for sale at this time).
This is an example of Mercedes' most modern limited production convertible. Capable of cruising quietly all day long at freeway speeds, these 220SEs combine old-world hand craftsmanship with modern engineering. Fewer than 1000 of these were made; production was from 1958 to 1960.
#2514 (christened "Emily" after Emile Jellinek) is a notable survivor, having been cared for by one enthusiast collector since 1976. Extensive service records document the excellent care the car has had, and indeed, Emily drives well, with that solid, supple feel of a low-mileage Mercedes. Documentation includes the owner's manual, parts book, delivery papers, ownership history, service records.
Emily has just had a "preservation" restoration. Nick DiMaio, formerly of California's Hill & Vaughn, has done the body and paint, Paul Kaminski's Star Service Company have done some of the mechanical work, and Dave Twitchell's DTE Motorsports did the final assembly, component rebuilds, engine bay detailing, and sorting out. The factory burled walnut trim has been saved, and meticulously restored by Gregory Merrick.
All the work, including re-plating, has been done to show standards, but the car has been restored to drive. The rear axle has been rebuilt and converted to a taller 3.89:1 gear for more relaxed freeway cruising, the front suspension overhauled including all fresh rubbers, the brake system rebuilt, Michelin radials fitted, and the engine rebuilt. S&S Imports has rebuilt the steering box, and the fuel injection was overhauled. Koni adjustable shocks were installed, along with a set of progressive-rate springs from John Olson. Burled walnut cup holders, later MB shoulder harnesses, and a Tom-Tom navigation unit round out the amenities.
Alex and Danna drove Emily on the first leg of a lap of the USA in the fall of 07. Starting from home in Maine, we went west to Vancouver Island, and then down the west coast to the San Francisco Bay Area. We did 8,500 miles in 7 weeks. Much of the trip was made more enjoyable by visiting MB enthusiasts along the way.
After completing the California Mille Miglia in May '08, we continued homeward, arriving in Maine in early June.