For Sale: 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SE in Jacksonville, Florida

Exceptionally Well Preserved, Highly Original, 48,000 Miles, Console Shifter

The 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet - an Amazing and Rare Automobile:

Introduced in late 1969 as a prestige model to supplant the somewhat underpowered six-cylinder 280SE, the V8-powered, W111-Series 280SE 3.5 was of immediate appeal to wealthy customers who were accustomed to having the best quality and workmanship available in an automobile. One of the last hand-built Mercedes-Benzes, an average of only 13 cars were finished per week, with just 1,232 examples of the 3.5 Cabriolet produced from 1969 through 1971, and just 347 in 1971. Featuring Bosch D-Jetronic electronic fuel injection and producing 200 horsepower, the engine provided brisk acceleration and was lauded at its launch. A fully independent suspension with disc brakes at each wheel was standard. A power-operated, insulated, multilayer top with framework fully concealed by an interior headliner shielded the sumptuous interior from the elements. Each convertible top is said to have required more than 16 hours of hand labor.

This 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet - A Beautiful, Highly Original Survivor:

Finished in mostly original Silver Gray Metallic paint with a Black interior and top this 3.5 is a very well preserved, highly original motorcar with what is believed to be 48,000 original miles.

The original paint is in excellent condition and there has been some light repaint work on the passenger side due to scratches. The interior is original except the front seats which have been reupholstered with the correct material. The engine compartment and undercarriage show as an original 48,000 mile car.

Service and repairs since 2016 total $30,000 and were performed by two of the best Vintage Mercedes shops in the US - Paul Russell and Company and European Auto Solutions - both in Massachusetts. The 48,000 miles is believed to be original based on the overall condition of the vehicle and a 2016 inspection of the timing chain which showed it to be original with appropriate wear for 48,000 miles.

Everything works as it should. Inspections are welcomed in Jacksonville, Florida.

It's getting harder and harder to find true survivors in this condition.