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Old Mercs from the 60s are so cool. They aren’t fast or sleek, but they are stately, tough, elegant and classy. And it’s affordable coolness, too. You could turn up to a swanky event in this sub $20k 1966 Fintail Mercedes, and look more minted than someone in a new Ferrari or even a new Mercedes. Even the radio is cool, and expensive. Read on.
Okay, a bit about this model: The W110 Mercedes was launched in 1961 and was the company’s mid-sized car aimed at the middle-class market. You got an economical 4 cylinder petrol or diesel engine and it was the first Merc to be crash tested for occupant safety. Now I understand this doesn’t exactly scream coolness, but you must admit, time has been kind to the old Benz.
This car was sold new in NZ in 1966 and is the rarer second series of W110. It got a slightly bigger four-pot petrol engine and a few other improvements. The upholstery is made of Mercedes’ legendary MB-Tex faux leather that will outlive the planet, and the radio is a Becker Mexico model that is worth a grand on its own, even if not working, like this one. The fact that it hasn’t been replaced with some dreadful 80s Sanyo is a blessing.
Now, owning and daily driving any old car is not without pitfalls. It may have been the fuel efficient Merc of 1966, but today it won’t be beating a Suzuki Swift on an economy run, or, indeed, a race. The Merc is not fast, preferring to just cruise along at its own pace. And you need to keep on top of maintenance, both mechanical and body. These cars are very robust and will give literally millions of kilometres of service, but they will rust and mechanical parts will fail if not looked after.
Please, be aware, this car’s ability to impress onlookers will be severely hampered if the driver is wearing walk-shorts, tennis socks and comfy white sneakers with a floral shirt and cap. It’s not a miracle worker. You’ll need to do your part by wearing a sharp outfit.
Find out more about this car here.
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