The movie The Hangover is renowned for its comedic chaos and memorable characters, but for automotive enthusiasts, there’s another star that shines brightly: the 1965 Mercedes-Benz 220SE convertible. This classic vehicle isn’t just a prop; it’s practically a character itself, deeply woven into the storyline and adding a touch of vintage elegance to the film’s wild narrative. Just as audiences remember Alan, Phil, Stu, and Doug, the Mercedes-Benz from The Hangover has earned its place in cinematic and automotive history.
Five Mercedes-Benz 220SE models were employed during the filming to ensure production continuity and accommodate various scenes. Interestingly, this number included three authentic convertibles and two cleverly modified coupes, designed to mimic the convertible style. This modification was necessary for scenes where the cars faced potential damage, as using solely original convertibles would have been both risky and costly. The initial plan involved intentionally destroying the coupe replicas due to their compromised structural integrity after modification. However, during the dynamic filming process, a mishap occurred, leading to the accidental destruction of a genuine convertible alongside one of the modified coupes. This incident underscores the demanding nature of film production and the inherent risks involved, even with meticulous planning.
Following the movie’s wrap, the two surviving Mercedes-Benz 220SE convertibles, having played their parts in cinematic history, were auctioned off for charitable causes. Adding to the car’s intriguing story, one of these iconic vehicles resurfaced on eBay some time later. The seller highlighted its excellent driving condition and well-maintained physical appearance, clarifying that while it’s not a concours-level show car, its value lies in its unique history. This particular Mercedes was primarily used for interior shots, and the interior was meticulously restored to its original condition after filming wrapped, ensuring its classic charm was preserved.
To understand the market context, a review of sales data for 1964-1966 Mercedes-Benz 220SE convertibles reveals a valuation range from approximately $40,000 to upwards of $82,000, largely dependent on condition and originality. While a standard 220SE convertible in excellent condition commands a respectable price, the Hangover Mercedes-Benz carries an undeniable premium. The documented silver screen fame significantly elevates its desirability and collectibility, justifying a higher market value compared to its non-movie star counterparts. The “Buy It Now” price of $95,000 at the time of the eBay listing reflected this added value, appealing to both classic car collectors and fans of The Hangover alike, proving the enduring appeal of a classic Mercedes-Benz with a unique Hollywood story.
