Curated News
By: NewsRamp Editorial Staff
September 22, 2026
Rare 1967 Mercedes-Benz 250SE Convertible Shines at DFW Car & Toy Museum
TLDR
- The DFW Car & Toy Museum displays a rare 1967 Mercedes-Benz 250SE Convertible, one of only 954 built with an automatic gearbox.
- The 1967 Mercedes-Benz 250SE Convertible features a 2,496 cc fuel-injected six-cylinder engine producing 150 horsepower and was among the last hand-built Mercedes models.
- The DFW Car & Toy Museum offers free admission to see a preserved 1967 Mercedes-Benz 250SE Convertible, sharing automotive history and craftsmanship with the community.
- The 1967 Mercedes-Benz 250SE Convertible at the DFW Car & Toy Museum was once owned by rocket scientist Wernher von Braun and appeared in a Kevin Costner film.
Impact - Why it Matters
This news matters because it offers a rare glimpse into automotive history, showcasing a vehicle that represents the pinnacle of 1960s Mercedes-Benz craftsmanship and innovation. The W111 Convertible is not only a beautiful classic but also a technological pioneer, being the first Mercedes-Benz with crumple zones and one of the last hand-built models. For car enthusiasts and historians, the opportunity to see such a well-preserved example up close is invaluable, as it connects us to an era when luxury and safety engineering were rapidly evolving. Moreover, the museum's free admission makes this cultural treasure accessible to all, enriching the community and preserving automotive heritage for future generations. In a world where digital experiences dominate, this tangible piece of history reminds us of the artistry and passion behind classic automobiles.
Summary
The DFW Car & Toy Museum in Fort Worth, Texas, is showcasing a rare 1967 Mercedes-Benz 250SE Convertible, a W111 model that exemplifies the luxury and engineering prowess of 1960s Mercedes-Benz. This particular vehicle, chassis WDB 111 023 120 88152 ZU, was owned by William J. Godfrey from 2001 until his passing and was later acquired by the museum through his estate. Finished in Ivory with a red leather interior and black convertible top, the car is a striking example of grand touring elegance. Under the hood, a 2,496 cc M129.980 fuel-injected six-cylinder engine produces approximately 150 horsepower, paired with an automatic DB gearbox—a combination found in only 954 of the 7,013 W111 Convertibles built between 1961 and 1971, making this car exceptionally rare.
The W111 series, introduced in 1959 with the four-door saloon and followed by the two-door Coupe and Convertible in 1961, was a milestone in automotive safety and craftsmanship. It was the first Mercedes-Benz to feature built-in crumple zones, and the two-door models were among the last extensively hand-built automobiles from the Sindelfingen body plant, incorporating four times as many hand-made parts as their four-door counterparts. This 250SE Convertible, with its odometer showing 10,971 miles (presumed actual mileage around 110,971), was regularly driven, reflecting a philosophy of preservation through enjoyment. It retains its original charm with an aftermarket air-conditioning system for modern comfort, and its body remains structurally sound with no rust found in the spare-wheel well.
The museum, founded by Ron Sturgeon in the 1980s, relocated to its current 150,000-square-foot facility at 2550 McMillan Parkway in North Fort Worth, near Meacham Airport and I-35W. It offers free admission and parking, and features an extensive collection of classic cars and vintage toys. Visitors can see this rare Mercedes-Benz and explore other automotive history, making it a unique destination for enthusiasts and families looking for unique things to do in the Dallas Fort Worth area. The W111's cultural significance is further highlighted by notable owners like rocket scientist Wernher von Braun and its appearance in the 2005 film Rumor Has It with Kevin Costner.
Source Statement
This curated news summary relied on content distributed by 24-7 Press Release. Read the original source here, Rare 1967 Mercedes-Benz 250SE Convertible Shines at DFW Car & Toy Museum
