* Fahrzeugstandort: Bovenden, E-Fenster links, E-Fenster rechts, Klimaanlage, Radio, Automatik, Lederausstattung, Servolenkung

1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet

Farbe: Grün ()

Leder: Braun/Cognac()

Chassis no. 111 027 1200 3641

Engine no. 116 980 12 001063

? Delivered new to the USA

? Left-hand drive, middle automatic transmission

? Extensively restored over the course of the last 12 years, for over 100.000£ !

? Present ownership since 2011

? Fastidiously maintained

? Registered in the UK

'Exclusive' is a much bandied-about word in the classic car world, but it is a most apt description of the Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5. Why? Because at $13,500 in 1970 its price was not only $3,500 more than that of the equivalent Mercedes-Benz saloon but also more than double that of a Cadillac Deville Coupé! Commonplace it was not.

The 3.5-litre version of the 280 SE typifies the resurgence of larger-engined Mercedes-Benz models that began in the late 1960s and early 1970s, when the progressive easing of fiscal constraints, which had dissuaded customers from buying cars with large capacity engines, encouraged the German manufacturer to offer bigger, more potent power units. Thus the ultra-luxurious 280 SE Coupé/Cabriolet and 300 SEL saloon were the models chosen by Mercedes-Benz to launch its magnificent new 3.5-litre V8 engine in September 1969. An over-square design featuring a cast-iron block and aluminium-alloy cylinder heads, each equipped with a single overhead camshaft, this all-new, state-of-the-art power unit produced 200bhp courtesy of Bosch electronic fuel injection and transistorised ignition.

The new V8 engine had particularly smooth running characteristics and endowed the 280 SEs with performance superior to that of many out-and-out sports cars. Thus equipped, the Coupé/Cabriolet was good for 125mph (200km/h) with 60mph (97km/h) reachable in 9.5 seconds, a substantial improvement on the six-cylinder version's figures. As befitted top-of-the-range luxury models, the 280 SE 3.5 Coupé and Cabriolet came equipped with automatic transmission, power windows, and a stereo radio as standard.

Although the equivalent SEL saloon used the 'New Generation' bodyshell, the 280 SE Coupé and Cabriolet kept the elegant coachwork that had debuted back in 1960/1961 on the 220 SE. Nevertheless, there had been some refinements made: the radiator shell was lower and wider, with a correspondingly flatter front end to the bonnet, a characteristic that has led to enthusiasts referring to these face-lifted cars as 'flat radiator' models, while the bumpers were now fitted with rubber strips. Significantly, the 280 SE 3.5 was to be the final model featuring this long-established and much admired body style. It was truly Mercedes-Benz's flagship model, representing status, luxury and reliability. Today these last-of-the-line classics are highly sought after by discerning Mercedes-Benz collectors.

This beautiful 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet was delivered new to the USA where it was treated to extensive refurbishment during 2010-2011. In the course of these works the bodywork was restored and re-sprayed, and the interior re-trimmed (seats re-covered and new carpets). In addition, the bumpers were replaced with ones of an older style, the correct type being no longer available from Mercedes-Benz. A new convertible top and tonneau cover in matching green were installed also.

On the completion of the rebuild, the Mercedes was purchased by the current owner in Florida and shipped to the UK where it was registered on 22nd November 2011. The car has since benefited from a further expenditure in the UK. Since arriving in the UK the car has been maintained by marque specialists John Haynes Auto Technics in Worthing, including a full and thorough renovation of the suspension, steering, under-body and exhaust system in 2017/2018. There are numerous receipts on file totalling in excess of £100,000 as well as a photographic record of most of the chassis work. A full service of both engine and gearbox was also undertaken by John Haynes.

The Mercedes has been kept in a heated garage for the last 10 years and has only covered some 3,000 miles during that period, mainly in the South of France where it was kept. The car retains its original Becker radio, electric windows and air-conditioning (see specification sheet on file) while there is also a contemporary set of leather luggage (four pieces) in unused condition with all the keys. Also included in the sale are a full tool kit, first aid box, and a breakdown triangle. Accompanying documentation includes a UK V5C ...

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