1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SE Convertible

For sale by auction on Saturday 31 August 2013 with Historics at Brooklands. Brooklands Motor Racing Circuit. Weybridge. Surrey. Call 01753 639170
In the summer of 1965. Mercedes-Benz launched its new
replacements for both W111 and W112 saloons. the W108 and W109
respectively. In a bizarre twist of fate. this car's design was
based on the W111 coupé but widened and squared off as the fintail
fashion was quickly fading by the mid 1960's. However both
W111/W112 models were modernised; the 220SE was superseded by the
250SE which featured the new 2496cc engine. producing 150bhp at
5500rpm. which gave it a significant improvement in top speed.
Visibly. the changes only affected the new 14" rims with new wheel
trims; this was to accommodate the larger disk brakes and the new
rear axle. In November 1967. the 250SE was superseded by the new
280SE. The new engine had 2778cc and produced 160bhp at 5500rpm.
Top speed of 120mph was hardly affected and the acceleration
improved to 10. 5 seconds. Inside. the car received wood veneer on
the dashboard and other minor changes. A final model was added in
August 1969. the 280SE. 3. 5 litre. It was fitted with the brand-new
M116. 3499cc. V8 engine with 200bhp at 5800rpm. a top speed of 130
mph and a 0-100 at 9. 5 seconds. To accommodate the large engine. br/>the car's front grill was widened and front bumpers were modified.
This change was carried across the standard 280SE. Many view this
car as an ideological successor to the W112. 300SE.

Even by today's standards. this car provides comfort. class and
capable precision driving from the surprisingly spritely automatic
gearbox. The paintwork is in excellent condition throughout having
been repainted at sometime in the its life; the mohair hood is also
in very good condition with easy and smooth operation. The black
leatherwork is also in good condition with the seats having an
'armchair' feel to them and. for extra comfort. this 280SE
Convertible also benefits from air conditioning. The 3499cc. V8
engine bursts into life when requested and is both smooth and quiet
in operation; this is an ideal. everyday classic that the new owner
will want to drive every time the sun comes out. A good history
file accompanies MCW51J including a V5 registration document. a
current MoT test certificate together with a history file and a
collection of previous MoT test certificates. This elegant 280SE
convertible (although previousely a saloon) has covered a mere
4. 00 miles in the last eighteen years and is sure to grace any
collection - and it will certainly put a smile on your face when
the sun is out.

Also published at eBay.co.uk

Want to buy this car?