Vehicle Description
1969 Mercedes-Benz 280SE Cabriolet
From the Collection of NBA Legend Clyde "The Glide" Drexler
Chassis No. 111025 12 002854
Engine No. 130 980 12 014623
U.S. Specification Example of the Prestigious W111 Cabriolet
Desirable Floor Shift Transmission and Factory Air-Conditioning
Verified by Mercedes-Benz Data Card
1 of Only 1,390 Examples Produced from November 1967 to May
1971
A Well-Equipped 280SE For Immediate Enjoyment
Owned by Clyde Drexler for Nearly Three Decades
Accompanied by Numerous Clyde Drexler Memorabilia
With Emergency Equipment, Accessories, and Records from 1990 -
Present
$128,500.00 FIRM
Will Not Last
In 1968, the "New Generation" of upscale Mercedes-Benz models,
alternatively known as the S-Class, was introduced. These carefully
refined five-passenger automobiles continued a tradition of
hand-crafted quality and superior engineering, while their formal,
classically-inspired styling featured the discreet use of chrome to
produce what many consider to be a timeless design. In particular,
the Cabriolet variant featured a padded folding top, while its
unitized chassis featured an advanced design with structural
reinforcements that provided great rigidity and safety. As
expected, interior appointments were a magnificent combination of
leather, wood and chrome. In SE trim, the "E" stood for
"Einspritzung" or fuel injection, and horsepower rose to 180.
Capable of top speeds of 120 miles per hour, the 280SE utilized a
sophisticated, fully independent suspension, resulting in taut,
responsive handling that made the 280SE one of the most satisfying
Mercedes-Benz models to drive.
11102512002854, this 1969 Mercedes-Benz 280SE Cabriolet, was
completed in June of 1969 for U.S. delivery in Tobacco Brown paint
over Dark Brown leather upholstery and an unusually seen Dark Green
soft top.
Paint: 423 - Tobacco Brown
Upholstery: 248 - Dark Brown
Top: 747 - Dark Green Soft Top
Additional Options:
401 - SINGLE SEATS
426 - MERCEDES-BENZ POWER STEERING AND AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WITH
FLOOR SHIFT
461 - INSTRUMENT WITH MILEAGE READING AND ENGLISH LETTERING
491 - U.S. VERSION
503 - OUTSIDE REAR VIEW MIRROR, ON THE LEFT
519 - BECKER RADIO GRAND PRIX LM/MW/SW/USW - USA
531 - AUTOMATIC ANTENNA
663 - 50 LITERS OF FUEL
"Wenig Gew�nscht" aka "Rarely Ordered"
306 - AIR CONDITIONER
747 - FOLDING TOP FABRIC - DARK GREEN
This 280 SE Cabriolet was acquired by noted Mercedes-Benz expert
Art Lasky in 1990 and sold to *Clyde Drexler in July 1991, through
Century Motors of Los Angeles, California. The purchase included an
extensive restoration performed by Century Custom Coach. Noted work
included all new paint, upholstery, woodwork, weather seals, soft
top and headliner, brightwork, a rebuild of the engine and
transmission, air conditioning, power steering, brakes, suspension,
electrical components, stereo system and more. A $70,000 investment
in total at the time. The commission was completed in 1992, as
recorded in an accompanying appraisal performed shortly after. The
Mercedes-Benz remained under Drexler's care since, acquiring
approximately 18,000 miles on the odometer. It relocated from
Portland, Oregon to Houston, Texas in 2001. A dossier of supporting
servicing records, registration documents, and memorabilia found in
the vehicle is included with the sale.
The vehicle's cosmetics have mellowed nicely into what we consider
an ideal "driver's" 280SE. The exterior's black paintwork retains
gloss, while the cabin displays supple tan leather upholstery and
carpeting - protected by custom tailored Coco mats. Monogram "CD"
mats are also included. A period Becker Europa TR is fitted in the
dash, while a more modern Alpine radio unit is hidden in the glove
compartment - paired to a CD changer in the trunk. It appears all
electronics, lights and safety equipment are in proper working
order, including the clock. The Behr air conditioning blows cool,
but not cold. A matching boot cover (with stowage bag) conceals the
top during open motoring, along with top wrenches in case.
Both engine and luggage compartments appear orderly and largely
correct. This includes the original chassis stamping along the
passenger front rail, radiator core support plaque. The engine is a
correct type replacement and operates well. Grey vinyl mats (with
protective matching Coco mat on top), spare wheel, tool kit, jack
and car cover reside in the trunk. The 14" wheels are date stamped
1969 and 70 - with 2017 195/75R14 Hankook whiteline tires.
The Cabriolet performs well in a variety of conditions and modern
traffic, thanks to upkeep and a 2020 inspection and scheduled
service. Additional memorabilia of note include a signed biography
and career spanning trading cards. We offer this 280SE Cabriolet
for immediate worldwide purchase and delivery from our Houston,
Texas showroom.
*"Clyde the Glide" Drexler played 15 seasons in the National
Basketball Association (NBA). A ten-time NBA All-Star, Clyde
Drexler was named one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History.
Drexler earned a gold medal on the famed 1992 United States Olympic
team known as "The Dream Team" and later won an NBA championship
with Houston in 1995. He was inducted twice into the Naismith
Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, in 2004 for his individual career
and in 2010 as a member of the "Dream Team".
The above vehicle information is accurate to the best of our
knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. It is provided
'as-is', without warranties as to its accuracy, whether expressed
or implied, and is intended for informational purposes only.
Corrections or additional information is always appreciated.
All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any
finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and
shipping expenses. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. DriverSource
is not liable for any errors, omissions, or mistakes.
