1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE Classic

1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 

This is one of the nicest classic Mercedes you will find. This Mercedes 280 SE is in good shape. One family owned.   This car features camel colored interior (orange bamboo MB Tex I think it's called). Cherry/Brick red exterior. AM/FM stereo. cd with remote (I have the original Becker Mexico radio/cassette and all its paperwork) and yes it was working when it was removed.  The Hirschmann antenna mast is currently inop ($56 on eBay) but the radio box was serviced by a German radio specialty company out of NH in 2010 so could be a simple fuse.  Interior is clean and has the normal wear of a 35 year old car.   All 3 seat functions work. A couple of dash cracks but have not expanded in years.   A small rip in the seam of the front passenger seat and similarly in the headliner back right.   The hat rack has some sun exposure and the requisite shrinkage but still very presentable.  Car has new premium front seat sheepskin covers.   Original dash instruments are all operable and intact (see pics of all the lights). It shows no signs of abnormal wear. To top it all off the cherry/brick red exterior and chrome are in good condition. This car had a rebuilt. used engine put in by Grandpa approximately 10. 00 miles ago. It gets 21+ miles to the gallon and may be used for everyday commute. Climate control works but the R12 A/C on these cars were not their strong point. Windows. headlights. fog lights. sunroof. vacuum door looks. turn signals. parking lights. license plate lights all function properly. Even the dome lights work (see pics). This MB W 116 is not perfect it is 35 years old and it is not a level 1/2 car.   But it is a timeless classic that has been lovingly owned and cared for.   The consummate touring car.   A common misconception is that these older European cars are very expensive and difficult to maintain.   Parts and expertise are readily available and the MB community is unlike most.   Do a quick search for this make and model and you will see how many parts were shared amongst different platforms and the availability is extensive.  

This beauty has extensive maintenance documentation (including new radiator. a rebuilt transmission approximately 5. 00 miles ago. ) Has been post-dealer serviced almost exclusively by an independent MB specialty shop in LA area. Recently spoke with the retired owner and he remembered Grandpa. his car and the engine work.   Have a file folder full of records. New 20% tint with limited lifetime warranty.   "Bundt" chrome rims.   Have to love $100 for premium 14" rubber.   Although every state and insurance company are different you have to appreciate $65 annual registration and $189 full coverage. $0 deductible classic car insurance.   Car is 100% CA/AZ car. No rust.   I use her as my regular touring car.   But she is up for daily commuting or as an excellent platform for a concours level restoration.   Paint and chrome are good and show the patina of a 35 year old car.   Have all OEM books. VIN plate. manuals and literature (excluding original window sticker) but I can tell you that new in 1978 she was over $23. 00.   Even have the cruise control placard.   Although she'll not win any stop light racing contests (well perhaps against a 190 & 240) she will garner you more appreciative waves. thumbs-up and approving acknowledgments. more than any at this price point. I am proud to drive and own this car. Only selling because as my children continue to grow I am in need of a SEL.   For some informative reading check out the Hagerty Classic Car pricing guide to see the current market value for these cars.  

Any and all questions are welcomed.   But again please keep in mind this is a 35 year old car.   Per my 100% perfect eBay feedback you can see I take this seriously.   I also have a few videos of the car at start-up. driving. the climate control working and "racing" an e63. I will of course work with you and your shipping company. or better yet now is the time for a wonderful visit to AZ for a fly and drive.   I'm happy to help in any way I can.  

Also published at eBay.com

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