There are few things we love as much as classic automobiles here at NorthWest Auto Salon, and Mercedes Benz definitely ranks high on the list of throwback favorites when it comes to automakers. Old Mercs have a way about them that appeals to a wide variety of enthusiasts – they feel almost presidential, effortlessly classy and refined, yet full old world quirks & characteristics that really make vintage, well, all that vintage can be.
The W108 and W109 cars were successful in West Germany and export markets world wide, and during the seven year production run, a total of 383,361 vehicles were assembled. Out of the thousands that made their way to US shores, not many are living out their years with as much steeze as John Zuberek’s Mercedes 250 S.
Seattle Auto Detailing NorthWest Auto Salon vintage Mercedes 250 S
When the 250 S arrived, it was clear that a bit of TLC would be in order. Even though it’s well worn and sitting static, it is very much a daily driver and sees a fair share of road time. A true driver’s car & an iconic drop at that, vehicles like this vintage Merc are meant to be enjoyed as much by those riding inside as those riding along side.
Seattle Auto Detailing NorthWest Auto Salon vintage Mercedes 250 S
We moved the 250 S into the wash bay and Myron set to work on the 24-step hand wash. Even after a preliminary scrub down, the 250 had already brightened up a bit. The gloss white body showed its age; after years of being exposed to the many elements of the Pacific North West, some panels had become more ivory than others, yellowing ever so slightly in tint. The flat hood & trunk lid displayed a significant amount of oxidization, surface scratches & marring, but nothing that a customized Connoisseur Detail couldn’t recondition.
Seattle Auto Detailing NorthWest Auto Salon vintage Mercedes 250 S
John did us a solid and removed the Mercedes badges prior to coming in. As you can see, their was a bit of metal tarnish and weathering built up underneath. Newer vehicles use plastic adhesive backed badges that usually only leave behind a bit of residue when they’re removed, but with this old Merc they were straight on the paint and left behind a bit of ghosting.
Seattle Auto Detailing NorthWest Auto Salon vintage Mercedes 250 S
Making note of scratches, minor rust exposure, and other problematic areas, Myron & Blake set to work on the 3 step buff & polish paint correction that would bring this 250’s paint back to life!
Seattle Auto Detailing NorthWest Auto Salon vintage Mercedes 250 S
Seattle Auto Detailing NorthWest Auto Salon vintage Mercedes 250 S
While Myron taped off the rest of the polished trim & window surrounds, Blake did a number on the trunk. This Merc needed a little bit of everything to recondition the paint’s surface to an even, smooth finish. After a bit more buffing, polishing, and even a little wet sanding, our synthetic sealant was applied over paint work to cap off the refreshed, glossy finish.
Judging from the reflections off the lights in the front fender, it seems safe to say this 250 s reached maximum shine. All of the oxidation and generally foggy appearance from before has vanished, revealing the crisp, brilliant white underneath!
Seattle Auto Detailing NorthWest Auto Salon vintage Mercedes 250 S
As luck would have it we happened to have another Mercedes at the shop receiving a fresh set of powder coated wheels, the very same Merc that we recently wrapped matte black and filmed a short time lapse with. Perfect for a side by side comparison of young & old, original paint & fresh vinyl.
Seattle Auto Detailing NorthWest Auto Salon vintage Mercedes 250 S
Straight away it’s easy to see the simple evolution of Mercedes design language that has carried over with classics like the 250 S to the E320 and even in their latest super saloons. Split lamps, large slatted grills, polished bumper rails and the timeless elevated 3- point star are just a few of the marks that will forever separate Mercedes from becoming just another car on the road; many automakers have tried to replicate such characteristics in their own vehicles with the hopes of gaining more buying eyes, but all fall short of the original.
Seattle Auto Detailing NorthWest Auto Salon vintage Mercedes 250 S
Everyone knows it’s not just about looking as fresh as possible, but also having the scent game to prove it. The classic and now thoroughly cleaned interior is completed with the adornment of a healthy stack of leather Little Trees air freshener.
Seattle Auto Detailing NorthWest Auto Salon vintage Mercedes 250 S
We decided to make good use of the bare reflector space with a new circle of white reflective vinyl and a small NWAS badge to tie the look together. The 250 S had nearly changed color over the course of its paint correction here at NorthWest Auto Salon, and final finish left it with the glossy, brilliant depth it once had from the factory so many years ago.
Seattle Auto Detailing NorthWest Auto Salon vintage Mercedes 250 S
As it sits static and awaits the journey home, it’s clear that low is more than a lifestyle for cars like John Zuberek’s 250 S; it’s a state of being. It exists for & with the soul purpose of enjoyment, bringing the kind of gratification that can only come from friendly drives along Alki beach or Lake Washington Boulevard during twilight hours. Driving for driving’s sake!
Seattle Auto Detailing NorthWest Auto Salon vintage Mercedes 250 S
If you want to find out more about our Connoisseur Detail, one of our many detailing packages, or get on the schedule just in time for summer, head over to out contact page and drop us a line.
Thanks for reading!