For Sale: 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 in St. Louis, Missouri

HIGHLIGHTS:
Spectacular, show-quality restoration by world-renowned marque expert, Hatch & Sons
Just released from a world-class collection after 29 years of meticulous care!
Arguably one of the best examples to come to market in years
Rare and highly desirable factory color combination
Fitted with every option including Behr air conditioning, center console shifter, and dark-stained woodwork
One of only 1,232 produced worldwide and one of only 347 built in its final-year of production
Last of the truly hand-built Mercedes-Benz Cabriolets
Recent comprehensive service
Drives and performs as new
Accompanied with its owner's manual, service records, and leather convertible boot
Tremendous investment potential
Incredible opportunity to acquire one of the very best!
A collector's dream

FEATURES INCLUDE:
3.5L V8
Four-speed floor-shift automatic
Tinted glass
Color-matched wheel covers
Full leather interior
Dark-stained Zebrano woodwork
Power steering
Power brakes
Power windows
Behr air conditioning
Becker 'Europa' AM/FM radio

A high-end derivative of the 220 Sedan, the 280 SE was introduced in 1959 featuring its timeless styling and incredible build quality. The basic design and chassis - internally designated W111 - endured for more than a decade. Over its lifetime, the car could be had with one of five single-overhead cam engines: four six-cylinder motors along with a 3.5 Liter V8. Each update brought more horsepower and torque, improving drivability and the feeling of luxury. The V8 was released in the fall of 1969, around a full ten years after the model's inception. The combination of classic styling of the earlier models and ever more powerful engine options proved irresistible to critics then and now.

A full leather interior with accommodations for four along with a fully lined top in the traditional stacked German cabriolet layout meant the 280 SE Cabriolets could easily be driven all-year 'round. A fully independent suspension with disc brakes at each wheel was standard, further increasing comfort and safety. Due to their complexity, only 13 cars were finished per week on average. For example, each top required roughly sixteen hours of work apiece, with the robust metal framework being entirely concealed from view by a full interior headliner. In total, Mercedes-Benz produced just 1,232 examples between 1969 and 1971, with only 347 produced in its final year. As one of the marque's last hand-built models, 280 SEs are highly vaunted by collectors and enthusiasts alike.

The incredible 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet featured here is finished in stunning Midnight Blue over a gorgeous Parchment leather interior surrounded by magnificent dark-stained Zebrano woodwork throughout with a Dark Blue folding convertible top. This investment-grade 280 SE 3.5 was restored by world-renowned premier Mercedes-Benz restorer, Hatch & Sons, with no expense spared, making this undoubtedly one of the best examples on the market today. We are proud to offer what we believe to be one of the very best 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolets to the most demanding collector, investor, or enthusiast who desires only the very best at an investment price!