I just got a 1978 450 SEL US model. Unusually for a US model, it came with a velour interior. The fronts are in reasonable shape, but the rear was replaced with Tex long ago. Is anyone reproducing the original velour patterns, or am I forced to go with Tex or leather?
raftel:
Might be worth your while to check this site: http://www.worlduph.com/mb15.htm.
I called them today. They can't get the original material, and advised me to try the dealer - that is a non-starter. I was hoping that there might be a source outside the US, as very few W116 cars came here with velour.
I was looking for a seat overhaul for my car, and was advised by my garage that the MB Classic Centre in Germany can reproduce the covers - at a cost of course! I think for the velour cover for the drivers seat it was going to be about 200GBP (can't remember the exact figure). I wanted to renew the whole seat, frame, horsehair pads and the seat cover and it came to over 1000GBP using genuine parts :shock: So it is available if you feel like paying!
http://www.mercedes-benz.com/content/mbcom/international/international_website/en/com/international_home/home/heritage/classictoday.html#mainnav
I wish I lived in south east asia, I am sure you can take any fabric and have it replicated there.
I have found that there can be 'automotive trimmers' who can obtain these materials. This is MORE expensive than new leather!
Most people find that a new leather interior is better for the vehicle.
Styria can supply new leather.
Not anymore - that was needed by the '78 450SEL that I sold to a friend after I got my 6.9.
As it turns out, there is a source for the velour in the US - Bill Hirsch, who advertises extensively in Hemmings, has the material for sale by the yard. I got samples of both the solid and striped velour, and it was dead on but expensive - ~$95/yard.
Quote from: raftel on 24 February 2006, 12:13 PM
and it was dead on but expensive - ~$95/yard.
That is why I restored my crappy velour to black leather