The Mercedes-Benz 220 SEb belongs to the W111 “Heckflosse” generation introduced in 1959, combining the restrained tailfins of Paul Bracq’s design with considerably more modern engineering than its appearance might suggest. The 220 SEb used Mercedes’ 2.2-litre fuel-injected six-cylinder engine and independent suspension, including the characteristic single-pivot swing axle at the rear. While restored W111 saloons remain relatively easy to find, genuinely preserved examples are increasingly interesting because their materials, finishes and small factory details are difficult to reproduce convincingly.

This German-market example has a particularly continuous history. According to the seller, it remains completely unrestored and rust-free, retaining its first Lichtgrau paint and original interior. He bought the car in 1985 from its first owner, a baker from Koblenz, at approximately 69,000 km; the odometer now shows around 80,000 km. The first owner apparently maintained it unusually frequently, with the service book recording attention every 3,000–5,000 km. The present owner has therefore covered only about 11,000 km in more than forty years, keeping the Mercedes garaged throughout. It was taken off the road in 2009 but has continued to receive maintenance.

The photographs are consistent with an unusually preserved car, particularly inside, where the upholstery, carpets, woodwork, dashboard and controls show the coherence expected of an old but carefully kept interior. Period equipment includes power steering, brake assistance, Becker Europa radio, original coconut-fibre mats and a factory-installed tow bar rated at 1,900 kg, together with its extended caravan mirrors. There are some exterior signs of use, particularly on the right front wing; remarkably, a replacement wing bought from Mercedes and painted in the matching colour around forty years ago is included but has never been fitted. The original service book, owner’s manual and even the new-car punch card are also said to survive. Before returning it to regular use, the approximately twenty-year-old tyres should be replaced regardless of their appearance, and the mechanical and braking systems deserve inspection after the long period of limited use. Find it for sale at €49,000 (about $57,500) here in Forstmehren, Germany.