1965 Mercedes-Benz 220SEb Cabriolet 4-Speed
Overview
Debuting in 1961 as the German brand continued to emerge from the postwar era, the Mercedes-Benz W111-generation sedans, coupes, and cabriolets succeeded the company's ‘‘Ponton" models of the 1950s. The W111 would continue innovation among the marque's flagship two-door offerings with new safety and drivetrain features. Most visibly, the car's definitive transition from earlier round-fender forms to a sleek midcentury unibody characterized the design influence of Paul Bracq.
This 1965 Mercedes-Benz 220SEb Cabriolet brings the aesthetic appeal of the classic W111 models with desirable two-door convertible packaging. The body is finished in Burgundy, and is believed to have been repainted to a high standard under previous ownership. Overhead, a Beige soft top convertible roof spans the cabin. Chrome exterior fixtures extend to the front and rear exterior bumpers, light surrounds, fender trim, and side door handles. Further exterior features include driver’s-side mirror, amber exterior side markers, Mercedes-Benz hood ornament, and 220SE emblem. It rides on wheels with color-coordinated chrome/painted hubcaps, reported to wear fresh tires all around. The interior is defined by remarkably preserved Cognac leather upholstery, overlaid with wood trim and chrome details throughout. Individual seating is provided front and rear for four occupants in total. Cabin highlights include a period-correct Becker ‘Mexico’ AM/FM radio, manually operated front/rear windows, air vents, and an integrated analog dashboard clock.
Power comes from a 2.2L naturally-aspirated, fuel-injected six-cylinder, driving the rear wheels through a four-speed manual transmission. The addition of Bilstein shock absorbers adds more secure stability and control on modern roads. Provided service records document extensive upkeep in recent years performed by Boulevard Auto Repair, a well-regarded Mercedes-Benz specialist workshop local to the Sherman Oaks area. Under 37,400 miles are displayed by the odometer at time of cataloguing. An ignition key set, owner's literature, front grille badges, car cover, tool kit, and jack are included with the sale of this iconic open-top Mercedes-Benz.

Features & Options
- W111-generation Mercedes-Benz 220SE Cabriolet
- Final model year of 220SE two-door model (MY1965)
- 2.2L naturally-aspirated six-cylinder with fuel injection
- 4-Speed Manual Transmission
Exterior Highlights:
- Burgundy paint finish, repainted under previous ownership
- Beige soft top convertible roof
- Color-coordinated Mercedes-Benz hubcaps
- Chrome front and rear exterior bumpers
- Chrome door handles
- Chrome exterior light surrounds (headlights, side markers, rear tailights)
- Chrome fender trim
- Driver’s side door mirror
- Amber exterior side markers
- Mercedes-Benz hood ornament
- ‘220SE’ exterior badge
Interior Highlights:
- Cognac leather upholstery with wood trim panels
- Leather side door panels
- Leather dashboard padding with upper wood trim surface
- Color-coordinated interior carpeting
- Individual front and rear seats
- Sun visors
- Manually-operated windows
- Becker ‘Mexico’ Stereo w/ AM/FM radio
- Air vents
- VDO dashboard clock
Modifications
- Bilstein B4 shock absorbers
- Front grille badges
Service Records
- Service records from current ownership
- Undercarriage photos
The seller states the most recent service took place in May 2026, and the current set of tires are all new. Provided service records report the following work has been performed:
March 9, 2026 at Boulevard Auto Repair Inc, Sherman Oaks, CA
- Tachometer repaired
- Engine oil service performed
- Transmission gear shift knob bushings replaced
- Heater valve and valve body replaced
December 16, 2025 at Boulevard Auto Repair Inc, Sherman Oaks, CA
- Battery ‘hold down’ bracket replaced
- Battery replaced
- Power steering service performed
- Transmission linkage bushings replaced (x2)
- Engine mounts replaced (x2)
- Transmission mounts replaced (x2)
- Cold start valve relay replaced
- Cold start injector seal replaced
- Thermostat replaced
- Fuel injection pump replaced
- Fuel tank and fuel lines cleanse performed
- Fuel filter replaced
- RPM cable replaced
- Exterior detailing performed
July 11, 2025 at Boulevard Auto Repair Inc, Sherman Oaks, CA
- Lower and upper slave cylinders replaced
- Brake fluid service performed
- Brake booster refurbished
- Water pump replaced
- Engine coolant service performed
June 27, 2025 at Boulevard Auto Repair Inc, Sherman Oaks, CA
- Exhaust pipe straightened (realigned)
- Fuel pump rebuilt
- Fuel pump, tank hoses replaced
April 8, 2025 at Boulevard Auto Repair Inc, Sherman Oaks, CA
- Rear differential seals replaced
- Rear differential oil replaced
- Rear axle wheel bearings replaced
- Tires replaced, mounted, and balanced (x4)
- Four-wheel alignment performed
- Front and rear shock absorbers replaced
- Center steering drag link assembly replaced
- Left and right front tie rod assembly replaced
- Center steering damper shock replaced
- Fanbelts replaced (x2)
- Engine coolant flush service performed
- Radiator hoses, radiator cap replaced
- Engine mounts replaced (x2)
- Valve cover gasket replaced
- Engine oil service performed
- Engine accelerator linkage service performed
- Spark plugs, ignition points replaced (x6)
- Transmission mounts replaced (x2)
- Transmission fluid service performed
- Rear muffler donuts replaced and reinforced (x2)
March 22, 2025 at 37,211 miles (indicated), Boulevard Auto Repair Inc, Sherman Oaks, CA
- Condition assessment performed
- Brake master cylinder replaced
- Brake discs, pads, rotors replaced
- Rear brake shoes, drums and hoses replaced
Ownership History & Provenance
This Mercedes-Benz is currently located with the seller in Los Angeles, California.

Known Shortcomings
Sotheby's Motorsport presents this auction in partnership with the seller. This 1965 Mercedes-Benz 220SEb Cabriolet shows wear consistent with its refurbished condition, age and mileage.
- The seller states the dashboard clock currently does not function
- Photos provided display subtle surface wear on the rear bumper section (below the passenger side tailight)
Please click the “Contact Seller” button to reach out with any condition-specific questions. This car is sold where-is, as-is, and bidder is responsible for all due diligence regarding vehicle condition.
Items included in the Sale
- Key
- Owners literature
- Convertible top boot
- Front grille badges
- Car Cover
- Toolkit
- Jack
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