If you’re a fan of The Hangover, the 1965 Mercedes-Benz 220SE convertible is likely as memorable to you as any of the lead actors. This classic car wasn’t just a prop; it was practically a character in its own right, sharing screen time with stars like Zach Galifianakis and Bradley Cooper, and even sharing scenes with a certain tiger. The movie put this vintage Mercedes-Benz front and center, though perhaps not always in the most flattering situations. Given that Mercedes-Benz no longer produces the 220SE convertible, its on-screen adventures were sometimes hard to watch for car enthusiasts.
For the filming of The Hangover, a total of five Mercedes-Benz 220SE models were utilized. Among these, three were authentic convertibles, while the other two were coupes cleverly modified to mimic the convertible style. Initially, the production plan involved intentionally destroying the two modified coupes, as their structural integrity was compromised during the conversion, rendering them unsafe for road use. However, during the chaotic filming process, a regrettable error occurred: one of the genuine convertibles was mistakenly destroyed alongside one of the modified coupes.
In a fortunate turn of events post-production, the two surviving Mercedes-Benz 220SE convertibles were put up for auction, with the proceeds directed to charitable causes. Car news outlets reported that one of these iconic vehicles surfaced on eBay, listed with a “Buy It Now” price of $95,000.
The seller at the time described the Mercedes-Benz as being in excellent driving condition and aesthetically pleasing. However, they also made it clear that it wasn’t a pristine, concours-level show car. Interestingly, this particular Mercedes-Benz was primarily used for interior shots during filming. Following the movie’s completion, the interior was meticulously restored to its original condition.
Looking at market values for Mercedes-Benz 220SE convertibles from the 1964 to 1966 period, prices generally range from around $40,000 to upwards of $82,000, with condition being a significant factor in valuation. Typically, asking $95,000 for a 1965 Mercedes-Benz 220SE might be considered optimistic. However, the undeniable provenance of this specific car—its documented role in a blockbuster movie—undoubtedly elevates its desirability and, consequently, its market value for collectors and fans alike.
