In early 1956, Fritz Nallinger, Chief Engineer and member of the Mercedes Executive Board at the time, asked the Head of passenger Car Development, the Head of Body Development and the Head of Engine Development for a meeting to discuss the future of Mercedes Benz and the successor to the illustrious Ponton series. With a launch set for the autumn of 1959, the team was set with the task of developing the successor – the passenger cabin being roomier was the only requirement. Thus the W111 was born, which included the 220B, 220SE and 230S models from 1959 to 1968. Among them, the 1963 Mercedes Benz 220SE 111 was designed with the export market in mind. Because the American market was the largest export market Mercedes had at the time, several design features including the wrap around windshield and the now famous raised fintail edges, were added for “American styling.” Interestingly, Karl Wilfert (Head of Body Development) decided he did not like the fantails shortly before the car’s introduction, but by that time it was too late.
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From 1959 to 1965, the Mercedes 220SE 111 sold 66,086 units, while the entry-level 220B sold some 161,119 units. With these numbers, it is easy to say that the 220SE 111 achieved the goal of being the first successful executive world auto for Mercedes, or Daimler-Benz. Whether it is the iconic styling of the fintails that draws you or the idea of owning a timeless classic, the team at The Beverly Hills Car Club would be happy to assist you in buying a 1963 Mercedes Benz 220SE 111 to not only meet your needs, but to also exceed your expectations. As with all classic European and American autos, the California classic car dealership experts at The Beverly Hills Car Club recommend a thorough inspection of any car you are interested in purchasing. This includes looking for rust and ensuring that chassis and engine numbers are matching.
The team at The Beverly Hills Car Club provides these Buyer’s Tips as a complimentary resource to its clients and friends who are interested in 1963 Mercedes Benz 220SE 111 models and others. Should you have any questions or would like to begin your search – the team is always just a phone call away. Connect today to get started!
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