To Be OFFERED AT AUCTIONEstimate:
$300,000 - $350,000
- Equipped with the desirable options of Behr factory air
conditioning and a floor-mounted gear shift lever
- Retains its original engine
- Mercedes-Benz's last truly hand-built automobile
- One of just 1,232 V-8 cabriolets produced from 1969-1971
- Mercedes-Benz factory build sheet included
The timeless styling of the 280 SE was first introduced in August
of 1961, a derivative of the 220 Sedan introduced in 1959. The
basic design endured through five single-overhead cam engines, four
six-cylinder engines, and a V-8 offering more horsepower with each
iteration. Mercedes-Benz introduced the 280 SE 3.5 in the fall of
1969. It combined the classic styling of earlier Mercedes-Benz's
with an all-new 230 bhp V-8 engine with Bosch D-Jetronic electronic
fuel injection. A fully independent suspension with disc brakes at
each wheel was standard.
Sumptuous accommodations for four included a fully-lined top in the
traditional stacked German cabriolet manner. The top folded
electrically into six layers of cloth insulation and padding. When
closed, the top was nearly 1 � inches thick giving the car superior
insulation and soundproofing. The framework of the convertible top
was concealed from view by a full interior headliner; each top
requiring more than sixteen hours of hand labor. Only thirteen cars
per week were built with M-B building just 1,232 examples between
1969 and 1971. This was Mercedes' final hand-built automobile.
Finished in Light Beige (DB181) as originally built, this luxurious
U.S. market cabriolet retains its original dark brown leather
interior. It is equipped with a matching brown fabric cabriolet
roof, Becker radio, two-note horn, front armrest, and the two most
desirable options to collectors of the marque - Behr factory air
conditioning, and the floor-mounted gear selector for the automatic
transmission. The car is documented with its original factory build
sheet from Mercedes-Benz, which further confirms that the car
retains its original engine.
It was first acquired by the owner of a New Jersey-based
Mercedes-Benz dealership; later coming into the hands of a
meticulous Pennsylvania collector, Harry Scaggs. Scaggs began to
restore the car, but due to his health, was unable to complete the
project, selling the car to Karl Bekemeier. While the engine and
mechanical components were rebuilt, the remainder of the car was
partially disassembled. Bekemeier had the car refinished in its
original color. The interior, including the fragrant Roser leather
and carpets, remained in excellent condition, and was left alone,
clearly having been well looked after throughout its life as Roser
leather is normally prone to degrading over time. So too, was the
wood and chrome, having only a slight patina. It took Bekemeier
nearly 20 years to complete the car at which time the odometer
showed 39,000 miles - which were believed to be original.
Bekemeier showed the car, but used it sparingly, putting just 350
miles on it following the restoration. Panel fit is described as
"perfect" by the consignor who purchased the car in 2015. He
continues to pamper the car and has driven it less than 2,000 miles
since purchase. It has been recently serviced, the air conditioning
charged, and five new Michelin tires fitted. It is ready for its
new owner to enjoy. To view this car and others currently consigned
to this auction, please visit the RM website at
rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/mo20.