1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 S Universal

- Very rare estate car from the W110/111 series, which was manufactured by IMA in Belgium from 1966 to 1968 and sold via Mercedes Benz

- Top restoration to new condition at the highest level

- The 230 S Universal was the top model with high-quality body details

- Very authentic and contemporary two-tone paintwork in white and light blue; plus a newly manufactured interior in blue check fabric

- Very good driving characteristics thanks to an optimized engine with a 2.8-litre six-cylinder (W108) with fuel injection and automatic transmission

- In principle, the forerunner of the later "Lifestyle" estate, which was later established with the W123 Estate

- Only 2,754 "Universal" examples produced

This 230 S Universal was given a new body shell in the 1990s, when it was still possible to purchase doors, fenders and the underbody system from Mercedes. The original invoices for this are available. As the factory remnants of the special trim were installed in this car by the Karasch company, it is likely to be difficult to embark on such a restoration adventure in the future. Great importance was attached to the originality of the bodywork and interior.

In terms of technology and drive, the focus was on safety and driving comfort. The car was therefore fitted with a contemporary, overhauled 280 SE engine (W108) and an automatic gearbox, which ensures a relaxed drive. The axles were fitted with disc brakes. The Mercedes 230 S Universal is certainly the most beautiful and rarest station wagon sold by Mercedes. Like hardly any other classic car of the 1960s, it embodies the lifestyle of its time with plenty of space and a high utility value - e.g. for the classic car experience with the whole family.

Model history: The "Ponton" models were replaced in 1959 as six-cylinder models (W111 series) and in 1961 as four-cylinder models (W110 series) by the "Heckflossen" models. They were also available as chassis with a partial body, which were converted into ambulances, vans or other special versions by body manufacturers. The "Universal" estate cars, which were manufactured by IMA in Belgium from 1965, were a special feature. The estate differed from the saloon in that it had a modified rear axle ratio, 15-inch wheels, reinforced springs and a newly developed hydropneumatic compensating spring on the rear axle.

The top-of-the-range version was the six-cylinder 230 S Universal, which, like the saloon, was assigned to the 111 model series. With a longer front end, the typical "six-cylinder face" and lavish chrome, it had a much more prestigious appearance. The "Universal" was sold in Germany by the Daimler-Benz sales organization from 1966 to 1968. They were therefore only in the range for a short time. In total, only 2,754 "Universal" estate cars were produced by IMA.