MERCEDES-BENZ 280SE 3.5 V8 CABRIOLET, 1970

Automatic (desirable floor-change version) gearbox, leather interior, electric windows, Behr factory air conditioning, Becker Europa radio, Hirschmann electric aerial.

An official Mercedes Benz dating letter accompanies the vehicle, which confirms that it was manufactured in June 1970, and shipped to one of their dealerships in the United States. The craftsmen at Sindelfingen produced both the coupe and cabriolet versions of the 3.5, which were available with every luxury accoutrement that a buyer could wish for. This all made for an impressive, (and costly), automobile. The 280 SE 3.5 was to be the very last model to feature the W111’s long-established and much-admired body style, with the last model slightly restyled, with a cleaner and flatter nose and radiator shell. The body still appeared modern and featured characteristic American-style tailfins that gave the models their “Heckflosse” nickname. Today these high-end classics are highly sought after by Mercedes-Benz collectors.

The compact and strong 3,499 cc M116 V8 engine with its overhead camshafts and Bosch fuel injection, produced 197hp, and could propel the W111 3.5 Cabriolet to 100 kilometres per hour in 9.4 seconds and to a top speed of more than 200km/h.  These figures were a substantial improvement over the six-cylinder version. Large vacuum-assisted disc brakes all round allowed the driver to slow with ease, and handling was described as very comfortable, thanks to its coil-sprung independent suspension. The fact that it is also a full four-seater only broadens the appeal.

A comprehensive refurbishment was completed in 2016, which included a bare metal repaint, major servicing to all systems and a new convertible 6-layer mohair soft top. This car also retains the original tool kit and jack.  Our 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet is ready to be enjoyed by its next custodian.

Available to view now at our London showroom.