The Mercedes-Benz W111 Coupe 250 SE represents a pinnacle of 1960s German engineering and design. Produced between August 1965 and December 1967, this elegant coupe was part of the larger W111 family, which included saloons and convertibles. The 250 SE Coupe, distinguished by its two-door configuration and refined aesthetics, catered to a market seeking luxury, performance, and sophisticated styling. While not initially a high-volume seller like its saloon counterparts, the W111 Coupe established itself as a desirable and collectible classic, embodying the Mercedes-Benz commitment to quality and innovation.
The Mercedes-Benz W111 Coupe 250 SE: A Detailed Overview
The W111 series, launched in 1959, was a significant step forward for Mercedes-Benz, replacing the earlier “Fintail” models. The Coupe variant, introduced later in the production run, offered a more sporting and exclusive alternative. The 250 SE designation indicates the engine displacement and fuel injection system – a relatively advanced feature for the time. This model occupied a premium segment, competing with other grand touring coupes from manufacturers like BMW and Jaguar. The 250 SE Coupe was primarily sold in Europe, but a limited number found their way to North America, further enhancing its exclusivity.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 250 SE Coupe is its 2.5-liter inline-six cylinder engine, designated M 129 I / 129.980. This engine produced 150 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 216 Nm (159.31 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4200 rpm. The engine featured multi-port manifold fuel injection, a technology that improved efficiency and performance compared to carbureted engines of the era. Power per liter was a respectable 60.1 Hp/l. Power was delivered to the rear wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission.
Performance figures for the 250 SE Coupe were typical of grand tourers of the period. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 12 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph was achieved in around 11.4 seconds. The car had a top speed of 185 km/h (114.95 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 9.9 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 6.9 kg/Nm provided a balanced driving experience, prioritizing smooth cruising over outright acceleration. Fuel consumption was rated at 11.7 l/100 km (20.1 US mpg, 24.1 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l).
Design & Features
The W111 Coupe’s design is characterized by its elegant lines, low roofline, and relatively understated chrome accents. The two-door coupe body style offered a more dynamic and sporty appearance than the four-door saloon. The interior was lavishly appointed with high-quality materials, including wood trim, leather upholstery, and comfortable seating for five passengers.
Safety features, while not as comprehensive as those found in modern vehicles, were advanced for the 1960s. Disc brakes were fitted to all four wheels, providing superior stopping power compared to drum brakes. The car’s robust construction and crumple zones offered a degree of crash protection. The focus, however, was primarily on providing a luxurious and comfortable driving experience. Features like power steering and optional air conditioning enhanced the car’s appeal to discerning buyers. The 82-liter (21.66 US gal) fuel tank provided a reasonable driving range for long journeys.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | W111 |
| Generation | W111 Coupe |
| Type (Engine) | 250 SE (150 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | August, 1965 |
| End of production | December, 1967 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.7 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 20.1 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 24.1 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 8.5 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.9 kg/Hp |
| Hp/tonne | 100.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm |
| Nm/tonne | 145 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 216 Nm @ 4200 rpm (159.31 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 129 I / 129.980 |
| Engine displacement | 2496 cm3 (152.32 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 78.8 mm (3.1 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1490 kg (3284.89 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1960 kg (4321.06 lbs.) |
| Max load | 470 kg (1036.17 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 82 l (21.66 US gal | 18.04 UK gal) |
| Length | 4880 mm (192.13 in.) |
| Width | 1845 mm (72.64 in.) |
| Height | 1420 mm (55.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2750 mm (108.27 in.) |
| Front track | 1482 mm (58.35 in.) |
| Rear track | 1485 mm (58.46 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 |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 14 |
The Mercedes-Benz W111 Coupe 250 SE remains a highly sought-after classic car, appreciated for its elegant design, refined engineering, and historical significance. It represents a golden age of automotive craftsmanship and continues to captivate enthusiasts worldwide.
