The W111 ‘Heckflosse’ or ‘Fintail’ was launched in 1959 as the first stage in the replacement of the popular ‘Ponton’ range. The new model was very much a thorough update of the existing platform but chief engineer Fritz Nallinger was instructed to give the car fashionable styling which echoed trends coming out of the Italian styling studios. In typical Mercedes form the fins which gave the car its nickname were subtle and also had a safety aspect, in that they allowed the driver to see the rear corner of the car in either the wing mirror or out the rear window. The W111 still had the traditional big Mercedes grille with the three pointed star on top, but the front end also boasted distinctive light units. There was also a brand new cabin facia with a safety-padded dashboard and a controversial ‘all in one’ gauge cluster featuring a vertical strip speedometer.

Three models were offered, each with the 2.2-litre straight six engine in a higher state of tune – 220, 220S and 220SE. Although they were extremely expensive (the 220SE cost 20 per cent more than a Jaguar MkX, the Fintails were distinguished by their spacious cabins, excellent refinement and very high standard of engineering.

We are very pleased to bring this highly original example to market for the very first time. Ordered in 1965 from the factory by a British surgeon based in Geneva, this RHD Fintail was then brought to the UK in 1967 and has been lovingly cared for ever since.

Boasting a comprehensive history file including original running in service from 1965, service documents and book pack the car also his its original spare keys, rubber mats and tyre jack. We have a copy of Mercedes Enthusiast magazine dated 2003 where the car is featured. The houndstooth cloth bench seats front and rear are in time warp condition showing no evidence of repair.

The external bodywork is as straight as an arrow, the Cement Grey paintwork is one of the most evocative of Mercedes period colours. The chrome work is excellent all round as is the glasswork and lenses. The car rides on its original 13’’ wheels with excellent tyres and colour coded dog bowl hubcaps.

For peace of mind the car has an inspection report by Paul Sumner Classics, the foremost Fintail expert in the UK who also serviced the car recently. The clutch and mechanicals have been gone through thoroughly, the underside waxoiled and she starts on the first turn of the key, has a super smooth column shift transmission together with an extremely comfortable ride.

Original examples like this rarely come to market, most are either tatty or over restored here we have the perfect balance. A low owners, low mileage car that can be cossetted as part of a collection, used for touring or even as a daily driver!