1972 Mercedes-Benz 250 Saloon - ex-Paul Weller

Introduced in 1968, Mercedes-Benz’ Paul Bracq-styled 'New Generation' W114/115 models (otherwise known as the '/8' or 'slash 8' series) were intended to attract new buyers to the marque and hence broaden its customer base. Typically well engineered, they featured all-round, independent coil-sprung suspension and four-wheel disc brakes together with revised manual and 4-speed automatic transmissions. Towards the upper end of the W114 range, the 250 was powered by a 2,778cc SOHC six-cylinder engine that developed some 128bhp and 159lb/ft of torque. Motor magazine achieved a top speed of 106mph with 'their' 250 automatic in 1970, summarising its attributes as 'beautifully made, fine handling, steering and roadholding and remarkably brisk'. It was, however, considered rather expensive, costing more than the 4.2-litre Jaguar XJ6, although legendary Mercedes-Benz build quality has never been a 'budget' option.

The Jam, fronted by 'The Modfather' Paul Weller, came to prominence in 1977 at the height of the Punk revolution, making an indelible mark on the UK music scene, with Weller going on to become one of the UK’s most respected singer/song writers, an achievement that continues to evolve and impress his worldwide audience to this very day. Paul has always been a keen Mercedes fan, with several sporting models passing through his hands over the years, however by 1996, a more serene, family friendly model was required for the school runs. Paul's father and long term manager, John, managed to find the W114 250 Saloon that we offer here and it was presented to Paul on the occasion of his 38th birthday in 1996.

Over the following 18 years the Mercedes served the family well, however by 2014, the passage of time had not been so kind to the much-loved Mercedes, with a little TLC being required and the decision was made to sell it. Andy Ash of Andys Autobarn of Ashford subsequently purchased MTF 345K with the intention of returning the car to top form, however a chance meeting with the present owner, a Paul Weller fan, saw the W114 change hands once again with the planned in-depth restoration coming to fruition over the following 12 months. More recently, another chance meeting with Paul's manager, Charles Rees, resulted in the trip of a life time for the Weller aficionado which saw him and the, now restored, Mercedes return to Black Barn Studios where it was duly authenticated receiving the full approval of Paul endorsed by his signature which now adorns the centre console (see our images). He also mentioned that, whilst behind the wheel over the years, he had penned several songs including Driving Nowhere from his fourth solo album Heavy Soul and All on a Misty Morning’from his eighth album, As is Now.

Since his unexpected purchase and subsequent restoration, our vendor has enjoyed the Mercedes to the full, not only for his own pleasure but also that of others, taking part in several Jam/Weller based exhibitions, transporting Weller fans around Woking on 'Tufty Tours’ and also raising funds for various charities along the way all carried out with the blessing of the Weller family who have also enjoyed trips in the Mercedes reminiscing about the heady days of The Jam, The Style Council and Pauls domination of the UK music scene over many years.

A change in direction now presents a unique opportunity for any Paul Weller fan to top off their collection and then some. Its celebrity provenance apart, this is a well restored and very well presented example of a classic Mercedes 1970s saloon and is desirable in its own right, however we are sure that the car's ultimate appeal lies in its long-term association with the 'Modfather'.