The W114 and W115 are probably one of the more overlooked Mercedes-Benzes out there. The coupe version, however, retained the restrained gracefulness of the coupes from the Three Pointed Star of that era. This particular example, a 250CE with a 5 speed manual is certainly a rarity, so much so that even a self-processed Mercedes fan such as myself wasn’t aware of its existence.
The seller states:
This is a rare, 5-speed manual trans 250CE European import. This car has been restored to an unbeleivable standard and has been featured in The Star magazine. The mileage is 101000KM, approx 63K miles. Stunning paint and color combo. Everything works, the car drives as you would expect from this level of restoration. We have service receipts back to 1995 that include a new complete stainless steel exhaust, new Bilsteins all around and many little bits and pieces that indicate the owners took pride in maintaining this MB to a very high standard. A comparable “S” class coupe of the era in this condition would be at least twice the price of this CE.
The obvious attraction with this W114 coupe for me is, obviously the 5 speed manual transmission and the reliable M114 inline six. The obvious detraction is the price. I have never seen a W114 or W115 with an asking price of over $30,000, let alone over $40,000. Even considering the restoration and provenance, it just seems a bridge too far. Who knows, though. There may be a collector or museum out there who is looking for something along these exact lines and they’ll consider it a reasonable buy.
-Paul
Wow, $43,900 ask price?! Did the dealer pull that number out of a hat? Its extremely nice, but not going to sell in today’s market north of $40k. Makes me wonder about my 70 250C.