Mercedes Benz 320ce Sportline

Widely regarded as one of the finest open-top cars Mercedes-Benz ever produced, the W124 Cabriolet was engineered without compromise.

Unlike many convertibles of the era, it remained a genuine four-seater with superb refinement, exceptional build quality and the ability to cover huge distances in complete comfort. This particular example represents the very best of the breed. A rare final-year 1996 Sportline model, finished in an elegant and timeless combination of Midnight Blue Metallic over Black leather, it is one of the finest examples we have encountered in recent years.

Purchased from renowned Mercedes specialist Charles Ironside in the UK and cherished by the same owner for almost 25 years, this is a car that has clearly been loved throughout its life. The condition speaks for itself. Over the years the car has been meticulously maintained and improved regardless of cost. It has benefitted from a high-quality repaint by the renowned Dennings, replacement front wings, a replacement hood, refurbished alloy wheels and ongoing maintenance to ensure it remains exactly as Mercedes intended.

The result is a car that presents beautifully from every angle and drives every bit as well as it looks. As a late-production model it benefits from the desirable 3.2-litre straight-six paired with the later five-speed automatic transmission, a combination many enthusiasts consider the sweet spot of W124 Cabriolet ownership. Smooth, refined and effortlessly capable, it remains one of the great long-distance touring cars.

The Sportline specification adds a welcome touch of sharpness to the driving experience, while the generous equipment list includes heated seats, air conditioning, electric hood, wind deflector and all the luxury expected of a flagship Mercedes-Benz of the era. The car is also supplied with a tailored car cover, service history and supporting documentation.

Period road tests frequently described the W124 Cabriolet as the benchmark luxury convertible, with many journalists commenting that it felt less like a converted saloon and more like a purpose-built grand tourer. Thirty years later, it is easy to understand why. In our opinion, the E320 Sportline Cabriolet is the pinnacle of the W124 Cabriolet range. The only model sitting above it in desirability is the exceptionally rare E36 AMG, a car that today commands close to six-figure sums.

Finding a W124 Cabriolet is relatively straightforward. Finding a late-production Sportline, with this ownership history, this colour combination, this level of maintenance and this condition is something else entirely. An exceptionally rare opportunity to acquire one of Mercedes-Benz’s greatest modern classics.