1970 | Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3,5

In 1969 when Janis Joplin entered Woodstock and performed her little song about greed, the reference was exactly these cars. Large coupes and convertibles produced by Mercedes Benz. Today more than 50 years later, any car having survived that long time might be regarded as a classic, however some cars are more worthy to the title than others, and without question the w111 cars from Mercedes are qualified. When new these cars represented some of the best money could buy, provided you had plenty. For the price of a w111 Coupe you could buy 10 Beetles or 6 Volvo 142, which tells you all about the exclusivity of the car. It was stylish and sophisticated - with a price to match.

Production of the Coupe started late 1960 and by 1969 Mercedes realized it was time for an update. The largest market for this kind of cars was USA, and over there a car with “only” 6 cylinders was regarded as no more than a middle market car. This was not appropriate for the top line model of Mercedes Benz, so a decision to develop a brand new V8 engine was taken, and with the designation M116 the mighty V8 was born. The engine proved hugely successful for Mercedes and was produced right until 1991. The engine featured electronic injection and was mated to a 4-speed automatic gearbox also produced in house. This engine proved to be a very good match for the new 280 SE Coupe with the addition of 3.5 for the volume. For the European market the full 200 bhp were available and in addition to the smoothness of the V8, the car was also quite fast for the time with a 0-100 kph acceleration of 9.5 seconds, and a top speed exceeding 200 kmh. We suspect however, that the majority of owners may have driven their Mercedes in a more gentleman manner.

The pillar-less and hugely elegant 280 SE Coupe 3.5 was arguably the best representative for the class and style associated with Mercedes Benz during these years. Only 3.270 examples of this beautiful more or less hand build car were produced between 1969 and 1971, and a worthy successor was not due for many years.

This car is a genuine European example with first delivery in Germany. Previous owners have kept the car in its original condition and it has never been restored. Repainted many years ago and still looking very nicely even today. Getting behind the steering wheel in the luxurious cabin, the beautiful smooth leather in original condition immediately gives you the best impression. The leather is soft and has matured in just the right way and even the original Becker Grand Prix radio and the automatic antenna, both of which functions perfectly, are in place. Electrical windows and sunroof complete the picture. It is a delight to drive the car with the powerful engine and smooth automatic gearbox, assuring a relaxed ride throughout the landscape. Especially with the sunroof opened and all windows down – all electrical of course - you really recognize that a pillar less coupe is something quite special, making every journey through modern traffic an experience of laid back quietness and dignity as you watch the world on the other side of the star. So “Oh Lord”……