For Sale: 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SE in Atlanta, Georgia

Motorcar Studio is pleased to offer this exquisitely restored 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5 cabriolet. Finished in Silver Gray Metallic with a blue convertible top and interior, this W111 presents to a concours standard inside and out. The present owner of nearly a decade commissioned a no-expense-spared restoration by an Atlanta Mercedes-Benz specialist, and the results are impressive. Data card confirms original engine and correct colors. Nearly all of the interior and exterior chrome has been re-plated. All new gaskets, seals, window felts, etc. This car was already a "nice driver" but our client's desire for perfection led to a glass-out, bare-metal repaint along with a new top, new leather interior and complete mechanical overhaul.

With total production of only 1,232 units from 1969 to 1971, the W111 3.5 cabriolet is among the rarest modern Mercedes-Benz cars - and at the time, was one of the best-appointed and most expensive road cars one could buy. This example was shown at the 2019 Hilton Head Concours d'Elegance where it received a Palmetto Award.

The interior is refined without being ostentatious. Excellent wood, dash, steering wheel, door panels, carpets and leather upholstery. Gauges are, of course, clear and working. Correct Becker Europa stereo with aux input modification. Climate sliders and factory A/C are working as they should. The A/C system has been restored to factory specs with correct hoses and R-12 refrigerant (and it blows ice cold). Cocoa mats are a tasteful and appropriate update to an otherwise completely stock example.

The engine compartment is a study in cleanliness and correctness, with the original 3.5 liter fuel-injected overhead-cam V8 mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. Both the engine and transmission were rebuilt during the restoration, along with all major driveline, suspension and brake components.

Paul Bracq designed the Coupe and Cabriolet versions of the W111, and much of his design language carried over to the W108 chassis. Widely considered the best expression of the marque, the W108 and the Bracq-designed W111 remain to this day great driver's cars - and this one runs and drives as new.

Owner's books, data card, tool pouch, spare, jack, three factory keys and complete restoration documentation (with receipts totaling some $235,000) are included with the sale. For more information about this 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet for sale at Motorcar Studio in Atlanta, please call 404-692-5250.