1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5L Cabriolet
Chassis No. 111027 12 001042
Engine No. 116980 12 000737 (Matching Numbers)
Transmission No. 38
Production No. 970467
Body No. 00164
Order No. 07079926
Completed: May 19, 1970
The Pinnacle Model for Mercedes-Benz in 1971
One-Year Production for the U.S. with Just 802 Examples
Imported
Powered by its Desirable 3.5-liter V-8 Numbers-Matching Engine
Presented in Striking Original Factory Color Combination
Includes Mercedes-Benz Data-Card
Offered with Original Books & Manuals, Weather Equipment, Spare
Assembly, Tool Roll & Emergency Equipment
For the buyers who were in the market for a convertible in 1971,
there was no finer choice than the 280 SE 3.5 cabriolet. It was the
fastest, most lavish, and most expensive convertible offered by
Mercedes-Benz - arguably the finest automobile manufacturer in the
world at the time. In addition to the mechanically advanced and
uprated V8 engine, inside the car, passengers are treated to the
level of understated elegance that one would expect in a car of
this caliber. Burled walnut dashboards and sumptuous leather
seating ensured that the passengers not only drove in style, but in
utmost comfort. 1971 was the only year that this model was imported
into the U.S., with just 802 reported entering the U.S. Mercedes
would not build another four-place convertible for over 20
years.
Offered here is an ultra-desirable U.S.-delivery 3.5L,
column-shifted automatic cabriolet. 001042 was completed in May of
1970 wearing Tobacco Brown paint with Dark Brown top, over Bamboo
Leather appointments and Dark Brown carpeting. A copy of the
vehicle's original Mercedes-Benz DataCard confirms this 280SE was
equipped with the following options:
Paint: 423 Tobacco Brown
Upholstery: 249 Bamboo Leather
401 Single Seats
421 Automatic Transmission, Steering Column Shift
461 Instruments with Miles in English Writing
491 US Version
503 Driver Outside Rear View Mirror
513 Becker Europa Radio (STEREO - U.S.A.)
570 Folding Armrest Front with Stowage Box
586 BEHR Air Conditioning and Electric Window Lifters (FRONT AND
REAR DOORS)
595 Tinted glass, windshield and doors, darker on top
641 1-Piece Hubcap, Whitewall Tires
663 50 Liters of Fuel
Rarely Ordered Options:
746 Folding (Soft) Top Fabric Dark Brown 8023
According to a previous caretaker, this 3.5 Cabriolet has resided
in California for the last several decades where it is believed to
have been sold new. Within the last decade, the Low-Grill Cabriolet
has received a number of cosmetic and mechanical services,
freshening and restoration work. Overall, the Mercedes-Benz
presents well with honest finishes, excellent panel fit and
impressive road manners. The luxurious cabin features cold air
conditioning, power windows and Becker Europa radio, complemented
by bespoke 4-piece Coco mats - paired to a matching top boot cover
for open motoring.
The cabin's Parchment leather seating is correct in appearance and
well-kept in condition, as is the complementing Brown carpeting and
Burlwood dash wood. The recent Tobacco Brown paint remains in
beautiful condition throughout. A set of top latch handles reside
in the glove compartment. All lights, instruments, and weather
equipment operate as they should, including cold air conditioning -
which has been upgraded with modern refrigerant and lines. The
current mileage of 84,000 is believed to be original. All four
steel wheels are date stamped September 1969.
The undercarriage appears very solid, with spot welds and factory
finishes visible throughout the vehicle, along with structural
integrity. Both engine and luggage compartments display correct and
bright finishes, along with decals, plaques and tags. The Mercedes'
original engine 116980.12.000737 remains in place, as does its
111027.12.001042 fender / chassis stamping. The engine bay finishes
and many rubbers appear in excellent, like-new condition, as does
the front suspension. Engine compression reads 140, 150, 155, 150,
150, 145, 150, 145 psi. The rear trunk contains a correct vinyl
mat, tool roll, spare tire assembly and emergency accessories.
Original September 1969 date stamped steel wheels are shod in (x5)
Brand New & Highly Correct 185/R14 Michelin MXV 3/4" Whitewall
Tires (air freighted from Europe).
The 3.5L Cabriolet is supported by a copy of its DataCard, supplied
by Mercedes-Benz Classic, along with important original manuals and
booklets in vinyl folio, such as the Owner's Manual, Notice for US
Tourists Buyers, Air Conditioning System Operation and Maintenance
brochures, Mercedes-Benz Service Stations book, Kangol Use,
Maintenance and Operating Instructions, Becker Europa Warranty
Ticket and all Booklets in vinyl sleeve.
Is this the most refined Mercedes-Benz classic model? We think so,
the 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolets are among the finest and final hand-built
motorcars of the Mercedes-Benz linage, and a lasting benchmark for
grand touring, crafted luxury vehicles. For those collectors and
enthusiast who demand a high degree of usability, outstanding
design and manufacturing excellence, we strongly recommend close
attention to this example. Now available for worldwide purchase and
delivery from our Houston, Texas showroom, will not last!
$339,500.00
To learn more about this vehicle, please contact our sales
department at (281) 497-1000 or
[email protected]
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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.
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finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and
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