The Mercedes-Benz W111 Cabriolet 220 SEb represents a pinnacle of 1960s German engineering and luxury. Produced between September 1961 and October 1965, this model is a highly sought-after variant of the W111 series, known for its elegant styling and sophisticated mechanicals. As a premium grand tourer, the 220 SEb Cabriolet catered to a discerning clientele seeking open-air motoring with the renowned build quality and prestige associated with the Mercedes-Benz marque. While not initially a high-volume seller in the United States, the W111 series, including the Cabriolet, gained a following among enthusiasts appreciating European craftsmanship and performance.
Mercedes-Benz W111 Cabriolet 220 SEb: A Detailed Overview
The W111 series, launched in 1959, replaced the W180 “Fintail” models. The Cabriolet and Coupe versions, introduced later, were positioned as the most luxurious iterations of the range. The “SEb” designation signifies a fuel-injected variant, representing a significant technological advancement for the time. This model offered a refined driving experience, combining comfortable cruising with respectable performance for its era. The 220 SEb Cabriolet stands as a testament to a period of automotive design characterized by graceful lines and meticulous attention to detail.
Engine & Performance
Powering the 220 SEb Cabriolet is a 2.2-liter (2195 cm3 or 133.95 cu. in.) inline-six cylinder engine, designated the M 127 V / 127.984. This engine produces 120 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 189 Nm (139.4 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3900 rpm. The engine features multi-port manifold fuel injection, a relatively advanced system for the early 1960s, contributing to improved efficiency and responsiveness. Power is delivered to the rear wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 12.9 seconds, while the top speed is rated at 165 km/h (102.53 mph). The power-to-weight ratio is 12.6 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 8 kg/Nm. While not overtly sporty, the powertrain provides ample power for comfortable highway cruising and spirited driving.
Design & Features
The W111 Cabriolet boasts a classic two-door, five-seat Cabriolet body style. Its design is characterized by clean lines, a prominent grille, and elegant proportions. The soft top, when retracted, neatly folds away, enhancing the car’s open-air appeal. Inside, the cabin is appointed with high-quality materials, including wood trim and comfortable seating. Safety features, while limited by the standards of the time, included robust construction and hydraulic disc brakes on the front wheels, a notable improvement over drum brakes. The rear brakes remained drum type. The car’s overall aesthetic reflects a commitment to understated elegance and refined luxury. Trunk space is a practical 530 liters (18.72 cu. ft.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | W111 |
| Generation | W111 Cabriolet |
| Type (Engine) | 220 SEb (120 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | September, 1961 |
| End of production | October, 1965 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.2 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 21 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 25.2 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 8.9 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 165 km/h (102.53 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 4800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 54.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 189 Nm @ 3900 rpm (139.4 lb.-ft. @ 3900 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 127 V / 127.984 |
| Engine displacement | 2195 cm3 (133.95 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 72.8 mm (2.87 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 | 1510 kg (3328.98 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1980 kg (4365.15 lbs.) |
| Max load | 470 kg (1036.17 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 530 l (18.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4880 mm (192.13 in.) |
| Width | 1845 mm (72.64 in.) |
| Height | 1445 mm (56.89 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2750 mm (108.27 in.) |
| Front track | 1482 mm (58.35 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
The Mercedes-Benz W111 Cabriolet 220 SEb remains a highly collectible classic car, appreciated for its elegant design, sophisticated engineering, and enduring quality. It represents a significant chapter in Mercedes-Benz’s history and a benchmark for luxury automobiles of its era.
