Mercedes-Benz has long been synonymous with automotive excellence, and the 1962 Mercedes Benz 300 SE Convertible stands as a testament to this legacy. This model, a jewel in the Mercedes-Benz crown, epitomizes luxury, performance, and sophisticated engineering. As Mercedes-Benz themselves proclaimed, beneath the stunning exterior lies “the most advanced automobile engineering to be found anywhere in the world.” The 300 SE Convertible was indeed in a class of its own, a car for those who appreciated the very finest. This particular 1962 Mercedes Benz 300 SE Convertible boasts not only the inherent prestige of the marque but also an extraordinary provenance, having been originally owned by the legendary Peter Sellers.
While Mercedes-Benz introduced their ‘New Generation’ S-Class saloons in 1965 at the Frankfurt Auto Show, the Coupé and Cabriolet models retained the classic and elegant design that had first graced the 220 SE in 1959. These were top-tier luxury vehicles, equipped as standard with features that were considered cutting-edge for the era, including air conditioning, electric windows, and a stereo radio. Powering the 300 SE was a refined 2,996cc, overhead-camshaft, seven-bearing ‘six’ engine. This fuel-injected marvel produced a robust 170bhp (DIN) at 5,400rpm, offering a remarkable blend of power and smoothness. Drivers could choose between a four-speed manual or an automatic transmission. Mercedes-Benz’s innovative hydro-pneumatic self-levelling rear suspension ensured a supremely comfortable and composed ride. This combination of engineering prowess translated to impressive performance figures for the time, with the 300 SE reaching a top speed of 120mph and accelerating from 0 to 60mph in a brisk 12 seconds. Today, these classic Coupés and Cabriolets are highly coveted by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide, representing a golden era of Mercedes-Benz craftsmanship.
This specific 1962 Mercedes Benz 300 SE Convertible, presented in elegant Old English White with a striking red leather interior, carries an unparalleled history. Its first owner was none other than Peter Sellers, a comedic genius celebrated for his roles in The Goons and countless iconic films. Sellers, known for his discerning taste and passion for automobiles, amassed an impressive collection of over 120 cars throughout his life, each possessing a unique character. This Mercedes was no exception. Sellers ordered this car directly from the importer’s stand at the 1962 Earls Court Motor Show, a testament to its immediate appeal. The sale was facilitated through Woking Motors Ltd, and remarkably, a copy of the original cheque written by Sellers to purchase the vehicle remains part of its documented history. Significantly, this is confirmed as the very first right-hand drive 1962 Mercedes Benz 300 SE Convertible ever produced. Registered on November 9th, 1962, with the registration ‘1105 PK’, the original buff logbook, bearing Peter Sellers’ signature as the first private owner, is also meticulously preserved.
Following Peter Sellers’ ownership, the car passed through the hands of several custodians, each adding to its rich narrative. Horace Walter Cutler of Middlesex acquired the Mercedes in 1963 and cherished it until 1973. Further documented owners include Mr Richard Perrins (from 1973 onwards), Mr P Semon, Mr Tony Collins, Mr Julian Trim (1989 – 2001), and Mr John Fitzgerald (2001 – 2004). The current owner, a Mercedes-Benz enthusiast and former engineer, has cared for the car since 2004. Adding to its prestigious history, this 1962 Mercedes Benz 300 SE Convertible was proudly displayed at Mercedes-Benz World in Weybridge, Surrey, for approximately six years from 2008. During its time there, it was exhibited alongside a photograph of Peter Sellers himself, fondly polishing the iconic Mercedes star, further cementing its celebrity connection and historical significance.
The accompanying history file is a treasure trove of documentation, providing a detailed account of the car’s life. Invoices totaling nearly £16,000 from the 1970s detail maintenance and service work primarily carried out by renowned specialists Normand in Mayfair and EJS Autos in Essex, demonstrating consistent care and attention throughout its life. A substantial £13,000 restoration was undertaken in 2002, ensuring the car remained in exceptional condition. A collection of MoT certificates, dating back to 1976, further corroborates its meticulous upkeep. Intriguingly, the file also contains correspondence related to Peter Sellers’ ownership, including arrangements made at the time of purchase and letters exchanged with his close friend and fellow Goon, Harry Secombe. Secombe’s recollections highlight Sellers’ immense pride in this magnificent 1962 Mercedes Benz 300 SE Convertible, offering a personal glimpse into its early history. Adding to the comprehensive documentation, the file includes magazine articles featuring the Mercedes-Benz 300 SE model and specifically ‘1105 PK’, along with original owner’s manuals and Mercedes-Benz booklets pertaining to the 300 SE.
This 1962 Mercedes Benz 300 SE Convertible represents a rare opportunity to acquire not just a stunning example of Mercedes-Benz’s most iconic models of the 1960s, but a piece of automotive history with unparalleled celebrity provenance. Being the very first right-hand drive example produced, bearing body number 00001, further elevates its desirability and collectability. This vehicle is more than just a classic car; it is a rolling piece of art, engineering excellence, and a tangible link to both automotive and entertainment legend.
