To Be OFFERED AT AUCTIONEstimate:
$75,000 - $90,000
- Considered the last truly hand-built Mercedes-Benz; the final
production year for a landmark model
- One of only 3,270 built between 1969 and 1971
- Light Ivory over a luxurious tan and beige interior
- 197-hp, 3.5-liter V-8; four-speed automatic transmission
- Equipped with Behr air conditioning, Becker radio, console
shifter
- A nicely preserved California car
If the Mercedes-Benz 280 SE Coupe had an air of timelessness about
it even when brand new, it was with good reason: This model was the
final evolution of the important W111 line, which was first
introduced in 1959, and it is generally considered to be the last
of the truly hand-built Mercedes-Benzes. Each car started with a
standard chassis which was then turned over to the specialized
craftsmen, each meticulously completing their function within the
build, furnishing the car with luxurious wood and leather interiors
for the bankers, lawyers, and Hollywood stars who would queue up to
own one.
This car, chassis number 111.026.12.003943, was built in 1971-the
final year of production for the model. It benefits from a 197-hp,
3.5-liter V-8 engine (introduced in 1969), giving the heavy,
luxurious car a respectable acceleration and a 130-mph stated top
speed. A low, wide grille (dubbed the flachk�hler, German for "flat
cooler") helped keep the V-8 cool while bringing the car's styling
up to date; it nicely compliments the car's classic lines.
One of only 3,270 of the 280 SE 3.5 Coupes built from 1969 to 1971,
this car is finished in Light Ivory exterior paint over a tan and
beige interior. Options include a Becker radio, Behr air
conditioning, and a floor-mounted console shifter for its
four-speed automatic transmission. A high-quality steel
power-operated sunroof was installed at a later date, with work
performed to an excellent standard.
Initially delivered to a client in Los Angeles, this car is
currently offered out of Southern California; a lifetime of care
has resulted in in a well-preserved example of a noteworthy
Mercedes-Benz model. It is offered with owner's manuals, factory
literature, two new chrome exhaust tips, and a spare tire.
Desirable when new, this car ably demonstrates why the 280 SE 3.5
Coupe's hand-built luxury appeal remains strong to this day.
Please note that this car does not include a tool kit.
To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction,
please visit the RM website at
rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/0520.
