The Mercedes-Benz W112 Cabriolet 300 SE represents a pinnacle of 1960s German engineering and luxury. Produced between February 1962 and January 1964, this model was the open-top variant of the W112 series, itself a sophisticated evolution of the earlier W111 “Fintail” sedans. The 300 SE Cabriolet was positioned as a premium offering, aimed at discerning customers who appreciated refined motoring and elegant styling. While not a high-volume seller compared to its sedan counterparts, the Cabriolet remains a highly sought-after classic, embodying the prestige and build quality synonymous with the Mercedes-Benz marque.
Mercedes-Benz W112 Cabriolet 300 SE: A Legacy of Luxury
The W112 series, and specifically the 300 SE, was designed to bridge the gap between the more mass-market W111 models and the ultra-exclusive 300SL “Gullwing.” It offered a level of refinement and performance that set it apart from its contemporaries. The Cabriolet version, with its elegant soft-top and luxurious appointments, further enhanced this image. The car was primarily sold in Europe and North America, representing a significant export for Mercedes-Benz during this period. It served as a statement of success and sophistication for its owners.
Engine & Performance
Powering the 300 SE Cabriolet is the M189 I inline-six cylinder engine, a 2,996 cc (182.83 cu. in.) masterpiece of engineering. This naturally aspirated engine produced 160 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 251 Nm (185.13 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3800 rpm. The engine featured multi-port manifold fuel injection, a relatively advanced technology for the time, contributing to smooth power delivery and improved fuel efficiency. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was achieved in approximately 10.9 seconds, and the car boasted a top speed of 185 km/h (114.95 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 10.6 kg/Hp and a weight-to-torque ratio of 6.7 kg/Nm provided a respectable, if not overtly sporty, driving experience. The engine’s specific output of 53.4 Hp per liter was noteworthy for the era.
Design & Features
The W112 Cabriolet’s design is characterized by its elegant proportions and understated luxury. The body, a two-door cabriolet configuration with seating for five, features clean lines and a relatively restrained use of chrome. The soft-top, when raised, provides excellent weather protection and contributes to the car’s refined appearance. Inside, the 300 SE Cabriolet offered a lavishly appointed interior, typically featuring high-quality leather upholstery, wood trim, and a comprehensive array of instrumentation. Safety features, while limited by the standards of today, included disc brakes on all four wheels – a significant advancement for the early 1960s. The suspension system, featuring double wishbones with a transverse stabilizer and air suspension at the front, and air suspension with a trailing arm at the rear, provided a comfortable and controlled ride. The steering employed a cone worm and recirculation balls mechanism.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | W112 |
| Generation | W112 Cabriolet |
| Type (Engine) | 300 SE (160 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | February, 1962 |
| End of production | January, 1964 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 13 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 18.1 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 21.7 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 7.7 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp |
| Hp/tonne | 94.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm |
| Nm/tonne | 148.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 53.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 251 Nm @ 3800 rpm (185.13 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 189 I / 189.985 |
| Engine displacement | 2996 cm3 (182.83 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1690 kg (3725.81 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2160 kg (4761.98 lbs.) |
| Max load | 470 kg (1036.17 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4880 mm (192.13 in.) |
| Width | 1845 mm (72.64 in.) |
| Height | 1400 mm (55.12 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2750 mm (108.27 in.) |
| Front track | 1482 mm (58.35 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1490 mm (58.66 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Air suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Tires size | 6J x 14 |
Today, the Mercedes-Benz W112 Cabriolet 300 SE is highly prized by collectors for its rarity, elegance, and historical significance. It represents a golden age of automotive design and engineering, and continues to captivate enthusiasts with its timeless appeal.
