In the automotive world, nothing says “brand whore” like a Mercedes Benz. This doesn’t mean they don’t make some excellent cars, it just means that the public is in such a sad state that I think the Smart FourTwo would have sold ten times the volume if they’d just put a Mercedes badge on it.
The vehicle featured today is a favorite of mine among Mercedes products, but there’s more to this particular example. Click to see more evidence of brand whoring…
The 300CE is an unusual find and this one appears to be in great shape with reasonably low miles for its age. For those who don’t know, “CE” meant this was Coupe version of the 300E, which is basically what the E-Class was called back then. This is old enough to have the classic inline six, too, which should provide smooth, effortless torque.
From the outside, this looks like a great example. I don’t even mind the period Momo wheels. But, move the interior and you can’t miss the ‘upgrades’ made by a serious brand whore.
The seller really says it all:
“This may be one of the unique and rarest cars listed on CL.”
“driven only on dry weather conditions”
Click for Craigslist ad
Orange County, CA
$6,500
These have classic lines and this one looks good. The clear lens modifications seem to update it, though I would have kept it stock. Apparently, it has an AMG body kit. I’d like better photos before finalizing an opinion!
This car might have a subtle aftermarket exhaust – doesn’t look bad. Again, I’d rather have stock lenses, but I wouldn’t kick these out of bed for eating crackers.
Momo wheels. Cool!
And…here it is! Mercedes is pretty good among cars, but Louis Vuitton is probably the #1 brand whore brand among all categories and industries. What a perfect match!
Here’s a closeup of the c-stack. Carbon and Luis? Why not.
Seats…yep. Notice the center console, as well.
Rear seats and side panels? Of course!
Finally, the classy touch that makes this one. The trunk hinges also feature Louis material.
Ad text:
This may be one of the unique and rarest cars listed on CL. 1992 Mercedes Benz 300CE finished in Metallic Silver over custom replica Louis Vitton Two-Tone Suede Interior including Carbon Fiber on all trims. I bought this car from used car dealer friend of mine back in 2007 with only 121,000 miles. I’ve only put on additional 9,000+ miles in the last 7 years as I have too many vehicles. Vehicle has complete AMG Body Kit, has Bilstein shocks and struts with H&R lowering springs, smoked tail lights, full suede trunk interior, and K&N Air performance filter. Previously had 18″ Lorinser Wheels so fenders are rolled. Sadly I have to let go a couple of them including this very unique and sought after car. Car has always been parked inside the garage and have been driven only on dry weather conditions. Oil changes done every 6 months despite driving only 1,500 miles/year using either Mobile 1 or Amsoil 10/40 pure synthetic oil.
Below you will find a list of maintenance and repairs I’ve done for the last 7 years/9,000 miles:
1) Complete head gasket replaced at time of purchase in 2007. Very dry, no oil seepage or leaks.
2) New ignition wires @ 126,000mi including new spark plugs
3) Rebuilt transmission ECU @ 126,000mi
4) Rebuilt engine ECU @ 126,000
5) Transmission Oil and filter replaced @ 121,000 and 126,000
6) Cooling hose sand seals replaced at 128,000, no leaks.
7) New Heater Core @ 128,000
8) A/C Service @ 128,000
9) New Cap rotor
10) New Momo Winter Pro 16″ Wheels @129,400 (11/14/12) with Kumho Xpert Tires with new metal hub rings.
11) New fuel filter @ 129,400
12) New oxygen Sensor 129,400
13) New fuel pressure regulator @ 129,400
14) New front brake pads and rotors @ 129,800, rear brakes have 65% ceramic pads.
15) New Catalytic Converter 129,800, passed smog last October 2013.
16) A/C Serviced 130,150
17) Passed Smog August 6, 2014 🙂
Here’s a list of issues to keep in mind on this vehicle:
1) Vehicle is over 22 years old 😉
2) Paint job is over 8 years old and could use a respray. Showing age on roof paint.
3) Hair line cracks on rocker panel section of AMG Kit. Care is required when jacking vehicle for service.
4) Has after old market radio but speakers are old. No subwoofer.
5) Previously had 18″ Lorinser Wheels so fenders are rolled.
6) Rear windshield tint is peeling
I would rate this 22 year old vehicle 9/10 mechanically, 9/10 interior, and 7.5/10 exterior. I have the pink slip on hand and would be glad to answer all questions on the vehicle. I have lowered asking price down to $6,500 on this vehicle but I would be glad to entertain reasonable offers to serious buyers. 18″ Lorinser wheels with Custom Hub Centric Wheel Spacers available at an additional cost of $1,000. You may contact me by email or text at 7one4-87five-2five69 to view vehicle.
Thank you for viewing and have a great day.