Cabriolet validation VS Coupe

[Francis Abate]

While I am quite sure that my 250SE Cabriolet is a true convertible, there are a couple of points I have questions about and hoping that someone here can answer them.  I've researched the cautionary areas to look for in a chopped coupe and it seems like my car passes that test.  Here are my issues:

1. No stamp on the right frame rail.
2. What appears to be a different color interior than that specified. (Looks like parchment (more white), though is specified to have been grey (anthracite?) originally).

What seems to confirm that I have a cab is that the gap between the top rear molding and the trunk lid is there, 2-3".  The data plate is riveted, the engine number matches the data card, and the support plate for convertibles that mounts under the transmission is there.  I have asked around and one authority stated that the frame rails were not always stamped.  Tom at the Classic Center stated the rail could have been replaced, and the interior could have been to move the car quicker from a dealer.  I don't recall any weld evidence that you might see in a replacement rail however, I'll be back with the car next month to take a closer look at that.  There is slight damage behind the bumper on the right side indicating there could have been an accident leading to a replacement rail.

Thanks for any assistance.

[Vander]

Doesn't digits 4,5,6, of the vin tell you the body variant? 111XXX?

[wwheeler]

Yes, the original VIN number will tell you all you need to know. 021 would be a coupe and 023 would be a cab for a W111 250SE. If you can't find the VIN, you have bigger problems to worry about.

This site has plenty about W111 info http://mercedes.heckflosse.nl/

[Francis Abate]

Yes, it's 023 according to the plate on the radiator support.  I assumed if people were going to the trouble of chopping a coupe that they'd also replace the data plate to cover their tracks.  I'm just double checking all the evidence - thank you for chiming in.

[Benz Dr.]

Coupes and Cabs have different inner frame rails. The outer portion is the same on all 111 coupes or cabs.

[SEB]

I have a 250SE Coupe, so if there will be some need for comparison I can check it. BTW what color is your car?

[JPMOSE]

Some additional checks are:  map light built into glove box door; rear arm rest is a semi circle shape (versus rectangular);  trunk hinges are different, along with trunk lid; back seat is unique; and assortment of under plates, inner rocker panel, etc.

[MikeSimon]

Don't these cars - like the W113 - have a VIN number stamped permanently into the body somewhere? It seems strange to me that a removable metal plate would be the only place that carries the ID of the vehicle.

[PeterPortugal]

As well as the fabricated stiffening plate under the transmission the frame floor area under the front seats also had additional panels to stiffen the body.

[Francis Abate]

Thanks for the additional information, I will all this and report back to close the loop.

I have a 250SE Coupe, so if there will be some need for comparison I can check it. BTW what color is your car?
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Sebastian
1967 250 SL, 4 Speed, Euro spec, Tunis beige (462H),

The original color of the car was black but right now it's a faded shade of beige or cream. 

[Benz Dr.]

Don't these cars - like the W113 - have a VIN number stamped permanently into the body somewhere? It seems strange to me that a removable metal plate would be the only place that carries the ID of the vehicle.

Yes, they do. Same place as a 113.