This 1959 Mercedes-Benz (W128) 220 SE is one of just 10 Australian-delivered examples and is a matching numbers car that has undergone extensive restoration and mechanical work over the past decade. It is powered by a naturally-aspirated 2.2-litre inline-six-cylinder engine with aluminium head, overhead camshaft, and Bosch mechanical fuel injection that produces 85kW (115hp). Drive is sent to the rear wheels through a column-mounted four-speed manual transmission. The odometer currently states a documented 81,041 miles.

The W128-generation Mercedes-Benz 220 SE, produced between 1958 and 1960, marked the final evolution of the brand’s “Ponton” era. It was the first Mercedes-Benz model to feature Bosch mechanical fuel injection, paired with a 2.2-litre inline-six engine — a significant innovation that improved performance and efficiency. Built on a unitised body and frame, the W128 also boasted fully independent suspension, contributing to its refined ride and advanced handling for the time. The 220 SE was available in sedan, coupe, and cabriolet forms, and is now especially prized in coupe and cabriolet configurations due to their low production numbers. Its design focused not only on but also on safety, incorporating early crumple zones. Revered for its elegant lines, engineering quality, and rarity, the W128 220 SE has become a coveted collector’s car, representing a pivotal moment in post-war Mercedes-Benz history.

This 220SE coupe was originally finished in light blue and crème, code 356 over 439, it has since had a colour change to a darker shade of blue. The bodywork features extensive chrome trim to highlight its flagship status, while the interior is finished with various woodgrain trim panels. There are no aftermarket modifications made to this car. It runs on a set of 13-inch steel wheels with body-coloured centre caps. These wheels are wrapped in Maxxis MA-1 whitewall tyres. Manufactured by Mercedes-Benz in Germany and delivered new to Australia, this specific car is believed to be one of 10 locally-delivered units and just one of 50 produced in right-hand drive in total. This car, being body number 0001, indicates it was the first coupe made in 1959. d examples and it has undergone a six-figure restoration in the last decade.

Complete with the original handbooks, brochures, data card and service book showing the 220SE was delivered new by Merna Motors in Sydney NSW. The engine and gearbox are ‘matching numbers’ and the body is original as the car has never been pulled apart. With work totally over $120,000 over the past eight years, the interior received a complete refurbishment in 2020. Documented recent work includes a rebuild of the clutch and transmission, starter motor, brake booster and master cylinder, and new engine mounts, tie rod ends, servicing of the fuel tank, new fuel sender, original reconditioned fuel pump, new brake shoes, all rubber, new baily channels, doors seals and boot seals were replaced as well as a new genuine Mercedes-Benz windscreen. The most recent service was performed in October 2022 although other maintenance items have been attended to since, including oil change.

This Mercedes-Benz W128 presents in great condition with respect to its age. The blue paintwork was redone in the late 1980s but has since benefitted more recently from individual panels repainted, such as the roof. The paint shines in the sun and presents well, though there are several areas showing blemishes plus the paintwork would benefit from a polish. Chrome elements are polished to a shine and all body panels appear straight. There is no kerb rash or scuff damage on the wheels. Interior-wise, this car appears in fastidious order. The creme leather upholstery is effectively new, while the woodwork was completely refurbished when this car’s interior was redone in 2020. The carpeting is English Wilton carpet and is plush and thick, with fabric imported from England. No damage is noted on the dashboard or on the instrumentation, and the seats show no obvious wear and tear.

A folder containing a suite of documentation will be provided with this car including the original service books, manuals, receipts of all work carried out, maintenance logs, data card, magazine copies, an original jack, and rare tool roll.

As per Trading Garage Terms and Conditions, although Trading Garage has completed the following checks bidders must satisfy themselves to the accuracy of the description and do any research they feel necessary before bidding. All listings are sold in Australian dollars. This vehicle is registered in Victoria under a club permit. There are no security interests registered on the PPSR against the serial number and it is not recorded as written off or stolen.