1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 SEL (4.5 litre)

For sale by auction on Saturday 29 August 2015 with Historics at Brooklands. Brooklands Motor Racing Circuit. Weybridge. Surrey. Call 01753 639170
The Mercedes-Benz W 108 and W 109 range of motor cars were styled
by the noted designer Paul Baraq. These hand built luxury cars were
manufactured in Stuttgart from 1965 through to 1972 with further
production continuing in 1973 in North America only. The 280 SEL was
offered with a range of engines starting with the 2. 8 litre
straight six. 3. 5 litre V 8 and the 4. 5 litre V 8 (only available in
North America). The line was an update of the predecessor W 111 and
W 112 fintail saloons. The cars were successful in West Germany and
in export markets including North America and Southeast Asia.

We are delighted to offer this 1973 US market W 108 (non air
suspension) 4. 5 litre example today. When thinking of a classic
Mercedes-Benz. this is often the model that springs to mind. with
its stacked headlights and curvaceous bonnet proudly boasting the
Mercedes-Benz badge mounted on top of the large radiator grill it
is a true classic saloon driven by the wonderful V 8 engine that
delivers enormous amounts of power and torque. Presented with grey
coachwork and contrasting black trim. this SEL certainly looks
magnificent in its period colour and does not disappoint on the
road. During a recent test. the 4. 5 litre 280 SEL performed with
incredible ease demonstrating astonishing acceleration for a motor
car of its size with the three speed automatic gearbox operating
smoothly and immediately on demand. With disc brakes all round
(ventilated at the front). the big Mercedes-Benz stopped with ease. br/>filling the driver with confidence. The instruments displayed as
they should and even the air conditioning worked well. Close up. br/>the classic grey finish looks magnificent with all panel work
appearing straight with excellent panel gaps the doors shutting
with a re-assuring clunk. On the inside. the black leatherette is
in good condition and the woodwork. being a particular feature. is
in top order. A delightful. surprising addition is the Becker radio
that has been converted to an i Pod telephone calls being very
clear via the car's speakers.

On inspection of the US Title documents which accompany the car. br/>it appears that this US supplied Mercedes-Benz has only had two
American owners. the first being a Mr. Eric Miller of Portland. br/>Oregon. In addition. a full US Mercedes-Benz service history
confirming the mileage and all bills from 1973 to 2012 are
included. Imported into the UK in June 2015. this 280 SEL has an Mo T
test certificate valid until 26 th June 2016 and will arrive at the
sale UK registered and with UK import duties paid.

With the 4. 5 litre 280 SEL not available in Europe. this truly
magnificent. powerful and graceful automobile is a rare offering
especially given its very tempting estimate.



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