To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION at RM Sothebys' Auburn Fall event, 3 - 5
September 2020.
Estimate:
$80,000 - $90,000
- Powered by a 197 hp, 3.5-liter V-8 engine
- Console-shift four-speed automatic transmission
- Refinished in factory silver; retains blue interior
- Features original Becker radio and rare Bosch 'Fanfare'
city/country horns
- Odometer displays under 42,000 miles
- Accompanied by original books, tools, and copy of data
card
- Awarded a first prize in regional MBCA concours
The 280 SE 3.5 represented the ultimate development of this line,
with the powerful 3.5-liter V-8 engine that Mercedes-Benz
introduced at the Frankfurt Auto Show in 1969, as well as Behr air
conditioning, a Becker Europa radio, and a redesigned grille and
hood that shared styling cues with the latest Mercedes-Benz models.
Due to high production costs, the coupe retailed for twice the cost
of the best Cadillac on the market at the time. Nevertheless, it
was the car of choice for bankers and corporate presidents, while
the flashier cabriolet was in demand by Hollywood stars and
starlets. Only 3,200 coupes were ever produced before production
ended, with a mere 818 exported to the United States.
The example presented here is offered with just under 42,000 miles
on the odometer and a lovely patina on the leather and wood trim
that testifies to the stewardship and enjoyment of its previous
owners. This lovely coupe was awarded a first prize in a regional
MBCA concours (and was cited as an editor favorite in Autoweek's
coverage of the event) due to its originality, but it still
possesses the authenticity that is often lost in full restorations.
The only change from original is a repaint to the current silver
finish, nicely complementing the original blue interior, and
replacement of the trunk mat with a German mat from Niemoller.
Desirable options include the original Becker radio, center console
shift, and rare Bosch "Fanfare" city/country horns. The original
books, tools, and a detailed file of historical documents accompany
the car.
There is a sweet spot in almost every classic car marque
represented by a model that is rare enough to be collectable,
stylish enough to be a treat for the eyes, comfortable enough to be
a joy to drive, and still affordable enough to permit active use.
Such is the 280 SE 3.5, which was hand-built by Mercedes-Benz for
only two years, 1970 and 1971. The collecting world has long since
discovered the flashy cabriolet version, but the coupe-as stylish
and much more practical for long-distance touring-is now being
recognized for its intrinsic value. Very few of these coupes remain
in such original, low-mileage condition. To view this car and
others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM
website at
rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/af20.
