1961 Mercedes-Benz 220 SE SE Cabriolet

History and Background

The Mercedes-Benz 220 SE Cabriolet belongs to the W111 generation of Mercedes-Benz, which defined the brand’s luxury segment in the early 1960s. The convertible version was positioned as a closed-top counterpart to the coupé and was aimed at customers seeking comfort, fine craftsmanship, and a prestigious appearance in an open-top body style. During this period, Mercedes-Benz built on its reputation for technical reliability and meticulous build quality, with the larger open-top models always being produced in limited numbers.

The 1961 220 SE Cabriolet was part of a model series in which the inline six-cylinder engine with mechanical fuel injection was a key feature. Within the Mercedes-Benz lineup of those years, the 220 SE represented a combination of refinement and serious performance, without needing to possess the exclusive status of the later 300 Series. Production of the Mercedes-Benz 220 SE Cabriolet remained limited; only 2,729 units of this model were manufactured. This makes this version one of the rarer open-top Mercedes models from the postwar period.

From a historical perspective, the Mercedes-Benz 220 SE Cabriolet occupies a place between Mercedes-Benz’s postwar manufacturing tradition and the more stylized, internationally oriented luxury cars that the brand introduced to the market in the 1960s. The combination of understated design, technical refinement, and limited production made the 220 SE Cabriolet a model with a distinct position within the Mercedes-Benz lineup.

Features and Distinguishing Characteristics

The Mercedes-Benz 220 SE Cabriolet is distinguished by its four-seat configuration and its fully open body combined with a folding roof. In the W111 series, the coupé and convertible were given their own body styles, with a longer and lower profile than the sedan variants. This gave the Mercedes-Benz 220 SE Cabriolet a different appearance and proportions than the more utilitarian models from the same period.

In the 220 SE Cabriolet, the finish of the body and interior traditionally played an important role, as this model was positioned in the higher segment and was intended from the outset as a prestigious car. The technical foundation of the Mercedes-Benz 220 SE Cabriolet aligns with the Mercedes-Benz tradition of the 1960s, in which reliability, comfort, and precise tuning were central. Within that context, the convertible is regarded as a model that brings together the typical Mercedes-Benz characteristics of that era in an open-top version.

This 220 SE Convertible is in very good running condition. The chrome and paintwork look very neat, as do the interior and the soft top.

Summary

The 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220 SE Cabriolet is a rare open-top model from the W111 era, with a limited production run of 2,729 units and a clear place within the upper mid-range of the Mercedes-Benz lineup. The combination of its historical significance, limited production numbers, and the specific configuration mentioned makes this a distinctive convertible from the early 1960s. To get a good idea of the lot, we recommend that you attend the viewing day.

Please note: This car is being auctioned online by Classic Car Auctions.

This car is being offered in the “Classics, Sports Cars, Youngtimers Uithoorn” online auction. The car is available for viewing during the viewing days. The listed amount represents the lower end of the estimated value. Bidding starts at €25,000.

Auction

Opening: Friday, October 16, 2026, at 5:00 PM

Closing: Wednesday, November 4, 2026, starting at 8:00 PM

Location

Anthony Fokkerweg 7
1422 AE Uithoorn
The Netherlands

Viewing Days

Friday, October 30 | 10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Tuesday, November 3 | 10:00 AM–4:00 PM

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Transportation

After the auction, we can arrange transportation.

Within the Netherlands: €250, excluding VAT.

Outside the Netherlands: transportation upon request.

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