28th Jul, 2024 12:00
The Gold Cup Classic & Performance Car Auction
1972 Mercedes 300SEL
Exquisitely restored luxury sedan designed by Paul Bracq, fresh from a ground-up restoration
Registration - AWW 303K
Chassis No. - 10905612009016
M.O.T. - January 2025
Odometer - 22,000km
Stylish, imposing, and effortless elegant, this late example of Mercedes-Benz’s 300 SEL is presented magnificently in Moss Green, and is powered by the Stuttgart firm’s 3.5-litre V8 and four-speed automatic transmission. ‘AWW 303K’ is a left-hand drive model, originally for the European market, though it was imported to the United States in 1976, where it stayed until a few years ago. Trimmed in cream leather throughout the interior, this 300 SEL includes equipment such as electric windows and sunroof, power steering, and power assisted brakes. It is fresh from a full restoration, including new carpets and door cards. Stripped down to bare metal, ‘AWW 303K’ has been rebuilt from the ground up, and it looks as fresh as when it would have rolled out of the factory.
The vendor has owned the 300 SEL since 2020, and believes the indicated 22,000 km (a little over 13,600 miles) to be credible, though this cannot be warranted. The engine and gearbox were reckoned to be in perfect working order when inspected as part of the refurbishment, and the seller considers all aspects of the car - engine, transmission, interior, bodywork, paint, and electrics - as in ‘excellent’ condition. Invoices for parts worth more than £20,000 are included as part of a large file of paperwork.
Designed by Paul Bracq and one of the great classic Mercedes-Benz saloons, the W108/W109 was launched in 1065 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, with a series of straight-six engines. However, the model is a key landmark in the company’s history, as in 1966 an engineer dropped in the large 6.3-litre V8 from Mercedes’ flagship 600 saloon, creating a famous road car that was raced - the ‘Red Pig’. A facelift version was launched in 1967, which introduced V8 power in 3.5-litre form, and then 4.5-litre capacity for the US market. At the time of the saloon’s replacement in 1972, more than 390,000 units had been produced, of which around 9,500 were the 300 SEL.
In summary:
- Stunning example of Mercedes’ luxury saloon of the period
- Fresh from a ground-up restoration
- Left-hand drive example has spent many years in the United States
'A Buyer’s Premium applies to the Hammer Price of this Lot if your bid is successful, as per the following; Motor Cars 12.5% + VAT (minimum £250 + VAT), Motorcycles and Bicycles 12.5% + VAT (minimum £250 + VAT); Registration Numbers 15% + VAT (minimum £50 + VAT); Automobilia 15% + VAT (minimum of £5 + VAT).'
Potential buyers should satisfy themselves with the description and condition of each lot prior to sale. Each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ as per the terms and conditions for the auction, buyers are asked to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out the service. Any disputes over descriptions will not be entertained.
Sold for £17,438
(Inclusive of Buyer's Premium)
Auction: The Gold Cup Classic & Performance Car Auction, 28th Jul, 2024
This auction of classic, performance and supercars took place on the final day of the prestigious Oulton Park Gold Cup weekend.
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