Never restored, long-term ownership example in beautiful colors. Last of the hand built Mercedes Benz.1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5 CabrioletChassis No. – 11102712003095Engine No. – 116.980-12-002667Exterior Color – Grey Blue Metallic (color code 906)Interior Color – Blue Leather Engine – 3.5 Liter V8Transmission – 4 -Speed automaticCurrent Miles – 71,778 Owner Purchase – Purchased in 1996Highlights of This Car- Remarkably preserved example under long-term West Coast ownership- Numbers matching engine per Mercedes-Benz Classic Data Card- Rare Console Shift Automatic with original leather- One of 1,232 Low Grille V8 3.5 Cabriolet built from 1969-1971 General OverviewWith over a century of racing and luxury refinement and significant production improvement from the 50s and 60s, by the 1970s, Mercedes-Benz built a prolific US market bringing exciting models to their growing customer base. Introduced in 1969, the 280 SE was a fresh and handsome design, offered in both coupe and cabriolet form. The 280SE was immediately appealing to customers seeking quality workmanship and bespoke accessories in a capable, elegant package. The 280 SE body was designed with a clean and unified grille, carrying both tradition and freshness to the new look. Under the hood, the upgraded 3.5-liter V8 engine was brimming with features including Bosch fuel-injection, power steering, and automatic transmissions. Technical details included 4-wheel disc brakes, comfortable handling via coil-sprung independent suspension, and a welcome series of convenience options. Today, with just 1,232 3.5 Cabriolets built from 1969-1971, these highly sought-after models are a welcome offering to the collector who seeks motoring pleasure, comfort for four occupants, and Mercedes-Benz quality, all captured in a beautiful touring car.History and Details of This 280 SE CabrioletAccording to a digital copy of the Mercedes-Benz Data Card supplied by Mercedes-Benz Classic, this 280 SE was completed November 4, 1970, finished in Grey Blue Metallic (color code 906), and fitted with engine #116.980-12-002667 which remains in this car today. After delivery to the first owner, this Mercedes-Benz is believed to have remained in California documented by a California 1975 registration card when owned by George Edward Baker, La Jolla, CA (original 1975 California registration slip included with the car). Services recorded in the service booklet in 1975 with 29,529 miles and in 1976 with 36,844 miles also indicate California service addresses. The car was purchased by the current owner, also a California resident, in 1996. According to the owner’s family, this 280 SE was reported to be an original, unrestored example, and formerly owned by John McCaw, McCaw Cellular. Recognizing the value of a rare original example, the owner, a Mercedes-Benz collector and prominent business executive, used the car sparingly, accumulating approximately 72,000 miles which are believed to be original. A handsome “low grille” variant with the V8 engine, this car features correct lower profile front fenders, lower grille, and other details which are unique to the low grille 280 SE. According to the chassis plate, this car was manufactured in October 1970 and the options tag mounted at the front of the car indicates the following factory features and paint color. 420 – Automatic transmission floor shift491 – US version503 – Outside rear-view mirror on the left513 – Becker Europa radio906 – Grey Blue Metallic paintUnder current ownership the car was serviced in 2014 by a Mercedes specialist who performed an oil and filter change, brake fluid and coolant flush, replacement for upper and lower radiator hoses, and the installation of a new radiator and fan clutch. In 2022, the car was extensively serviced including an oil and filter change, new front and rear brake pads, a new master cylinder, new brake bias valve, fresh brake fluid, chassis lubrication, and other minor adjustments. The car returned to the same shop in June 2023 where new front and rear brake hoses were installed, rear calipers were rebuilt, followed in October 2023 with the installation of new front and rear shocks and subframe mounts. Condition OverviewToday this 280SE 3.5 presents in excellent condition with smooth paint and handsome luster throughout. Although the paint appears to be original, it is likely to have been refinished to a very high standard prior to current ownership. The finish is glossy, and the body panels are straight, though a few small chips are noted on front facing surfaces. The driver’s side door opens smoothly and shuts with definitive German precision while the passenger side door also opens and closes properly though a bit stiffer likely due to less frequent use. The hood and trunk show excellent closures and fine panel gaps. All chrome appears in very good to excellent condition including the emblems, lettering, and impressive low-profile grille. Both front and rear bumper rubber show no excessive marks or warpage and are mercifully free from heavier vertical uprights. All lenses, lighting, and glass are in excellent condition and all glass panels retain Sekurit branding per original factory specifications. The windshield has a rock chip located about 5” from the base of the windshield on the driver’s side. The factory wheel covers are properly finished in matching Grey Blue metallic paint, and a set of 205/70R14 BF Goodrich radial tires are mounted. Overall, the exterior presence is impressive, well preserved, and elegant.The interior is in very good condition reflective of original finishes, original leather, and carpeting. The leather interior retains excellent fit and finish just as it left the factory with an authentic patina reflective of indoor storage and low miles. The detailing on the chrome instrument bezels, Becker Europa radio, air vents, and richly toned wood veneers are in very good condition reflecting preservation minded care. The largely original carpeting is in good condition. The front and rear footwell carpets appear to have been replaced some time ago, while the transmission tunnel section appears to be original. The steering wheel is also original and in excellent preserved condition with no cracks in the rim, an original padded centerpiece, and a smooth chrome horn ring. Interior door panels and rear seating continue the preservation theme with proper fit and smooth finishes that have only lightly dried on some surface areas. This 280SE 3.5 features the desirable floor shift automatic transmission mounted to the floor, nesting in the center console just as it left the factory. The dark blue convertible top is in good condition, very likely replaced some years ago, although some hazing to the plastic rear window is evident. The trunk further reflects a preserved original example finished with correct materials, spare tire, and displays excellent structural integrity under the rubber trunk mat. Under the hood, the engine compartment and V8 engine have been properly maintained and display correct factory finishes, proper hoses and hardware, and the correct air cleaner assembly. The engine and accessories have been thoughtfully maintained rather than restored. Clearly serviced by professionals using Mercedes-Benz parts and service guidelines, the engine appears very well prepared, here too continuing to reflect preservation and care without requiring restoration. A newer AGM Duralast Platinum battery has been more recently installed. The car starts easily and settles into a smooth idle with no smoke at the tailpipe. Driving manners are quite nice, owing to the 2023 services performed on the brakes, new front and rear shocks, and subframe mounts. The composed, stately nature and superb ride engineering are further evidence of the care this car has received under long-term ownership. The undercarriage and chassis components are well maintained, clean and properly presented. There are small, isolated areas of limited corrosion visible in the rear wheel splash areas, as is common to unibody cars of this era. The chassis shows no evidence of structural compromises to the floor, suspension, or suspension attachment points. Presented in its original color combination, this Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet offers four-passenger comfort, elegant classic motoring, and ample space for luggage or golf bags. Ready to deliver all the merits of classic car ownership this handsome, sophisticated, and elegant touring car is sure to deliver the next enthusiast the very best in classic Mercedes-Benz ownership.Items Included with the CarThis 280SE is offered with the factory owner’s manual, assorted accessory paperwork, a digital copy of the factory data card, radio manual, a blue convertible top boot, tire tools and metal tire stop, a convertible top removal tool, tools and tool roll, a 1975 California registration card, and records for recent service.