1969 Mercedes-Benz 280SE Cabriolet
Chassis No. 111025 12 002643
Engine No. 130 980 12 020027
U.S. Specification Example of the Prestigious W111 Cabriolet
Numbers-Matching Engine & Original Colors per Mercedes-Benz
DataCard
Thoughtfully Preserved in Original Livery
1 of Only 1,390 Produced from November 1967 to May 1971
A Well-Equipped 280SE For Immediate Enjoyment
With Emergency Equipment & Accessories
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. 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.
11102512002643, this 1969 Mercedes-Benz 280SE Cabriolet, production
number 970043, was a U.S. delivery example in Anthracite Grey paint
over Red Leather upholstery with an uncommonly seen Parchment soft
top. According to its Mercedes-Benz DataCard, provided by the
Mercedes-Benz Classic Center, the Cabriolet was equipped with a
host of options, as translated below:
Paint: 173 - Anthracite Grey
Upholstery: 242 - Red Leather
Top: 743 - Parchment Soft Top
Additional Options:
401 - SINGLE SEATS
423 - POWER STEERING AND AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WITH STEERING
COLUMN SHIFT
461 - INSTRUMENT WITH MILEAGE READING AND ENGLISH LETTERING
491 - U.S. VERSION
503 - OUTSIDE REAR VIEW MIRROR, ON THE LEFT
518 - BECKER RADIO MEXICO LM/MW/SW/USW - USA
524 - PAINTCOAT PRESERVATION
531 - AUTOMATIC ANTENNA
540 - SEAT ADAPTER, BETWEEN THE FRONT SEATS
595 - HEAT-INSULATING GLASS, WINDSHIELD SHOT-COLORED AND SIDE
WINDOWPANES
601 - OIL FOR REAR AXLE WITH LIMITED-SLIP DIFFERENTIAL, IN
CANISTERS AND CONTAINERS
641 - WHITE-WALL TIRES
669 - 662 + 666 - 10 LITERS OF FUEL AND MODE OF PACKING VE II
"Wenig Gew�nscht" aka "Rarely Ordered"
256 - REAR AXLE WITH LIMITED-SLIP DIFFERENTIAL
236 - ELECTRIC WINDOW LIFTERS (FRONT AND REAR DOORS)
743 - FOLDING TOP, PARCHMENT
278 - LEFT FRONT SEAT WITH ORTHOPAEDIC BACKREST
The cabriolet previously held residency in Maryland, with a 2002
appraisal record on file noting: "Exceptional car, very original,
one owner, low original miles 73k, straight, tight and a joy to
drive!" Which certainly coincides with the Mercedes' current
display. Now reading 76,800 miles, this 280SE presents as a largely
original and thoughtfully preserved example, not fully restored,
but rather freshened where and as needed.
The vehicle's cosmetics have mellowed beautifully into what we
consider the ideal "driver's" 280SE. Still wearing original factory
livery, it appears the car's exterior received new paint in years
past, while the cabin displays original red leather upholstery and
carpeting - protected by custom tailored Coco mats. All side glass
are etched originals, while much of the trim, brightwork, lenses
and accessories are correct originals. A newer black canvas soft
top is fitted with an original headliner and clear back vinyl
window. All complemented by five 3/69 date stamped steel wheels
with four chrome color-matched hubcaps and shod with new 195/75R14
Hankook whiteline tires.
The cabin's originality extends to all areas, including an original
Becker Mexico TR fitted in the dash - as delivered new, along with
the special optioned center seat pad and orthopedic backrests -
which adjust using straps on the backsides of the seats. Tilting
the seats forward reveal factory 043 chalk markings still present
on the leather over 50 years later! 043 markings can also be found
under the rear seat. It appears all electronics, lights and safety
equipment are in proper working order, including the clock and dome
light. The Frigiking air conditioning blows cool at multiple
speeds, but not cold. Convertible top wrenches rest in the glovebox
for top-down motoring, and a matching red leather boot cover to
complete.
Both engine and luggage compartments appear orderly. This includes
the original chassis stamping along the passenger front rail,
radiator core support plaque, and original number's-matching engine
- verified by Mercedes-Benz Data-Card. Gray vinyl mats (with
protective matching Coco mat on top), spare wheel, tool kit, jack
and tire iron reside in the trunk.
The Cabriolet performs well in a variety of conditions and modern
traffic, thanks to upkeep and a 2020 inspection and scheduled
service. Additional accessories of note include multiple sets of
keys, reproduction owner's manual, and servicing invoices spanning
the last decade. We offer this wonderfully honest 280SE Cabriolet
for immediate worldwide purchase and delivery from our Houston,
Texas showroom.
$148,500.00
Offers/Trades Welcomed
To learn more about this vehicle, please contact our sales
department at (281) 497-1000 or
[email protected]
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