3,499cc SOHC V8 Engine
Bosch Fuel Injection
200bhp at 5,800rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes

*Top-of-the-line, hand-built Mercedes-Benz
*Recipient of comprehensive 3-year restoration
*Equipped with sun roof and Behr Air Conditioning
*Attractive Tunis Beige exterior

THE MERCEDES-BENZ 280SE 3.5

"If you feel obligated to ask about the price you not only will never understand the car, you have branded yourself incapable of ever appreciating its virtues even if someone gave you one."
Car & Driver on the Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5.

The 3.5-liter version of the 280SE typifies the resurgence of larger-engined Mercedes-Benz models that began in the late 1960s. The ultra-luxurious 280SE Coupe, Cabriolet and 300SEL saloon models were chosen by Mercedes-Benz to launch its magnificent new 3.5-liter V8 engine in 1969. An over-square design featuring a cast-iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, each equipped with a single overhead camshaft, this all-new, state-of-the-art power unit produced a torquey 200bhp, courtesy of Bosch electronic fuel injection and transistorized ignition. Thus equipped, the 280SE 3.5 was good for cruising speeds up near 125mph, with 60mph reachable in 9.5 seconds, a substantial improvement on the six-cylinder version's figures.

Although the equivalent SEL saloon used the "New Generation" body-shell, the Coupe and Cabriolet kept the coachwork that had debuted back in 1959 on the 220SE and, as befitted top-of-the-range luxury models, came equipped with automatic transmissions, air conditioning, power windows and stereo radio as standard. The 280SE 3.5 was to be the final model to feature this much-admired body style, and today these last-of-the-line top quality classics are highly sought after by discerning collectors.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

On offer is a truly wonderful, fully restored 280SE 3.5 Coupe. Not much is known about the vehicle's early history, although the car is a true V8 model ordered from the factory with an extremely rare 4-speed manual transmission. After being purchased from a Florida dealership in 2015, this classic Mercedes underwent a comprehensive restoration to bring up to the most exacting standards. Over the course of 3 years the body was stripped down to bare metal with fenders being changed and refurbished where necessary. The exterior received factory Tunis Beige paint making for an elegant overall appearance. The work under the skin continued with the engine being taken out of the bay to received attention and a new clutch. Also fitted to the engine is a stainless-steel exhaust that will not only resist corrosion but also provide a pleasant V8 rumble as it moves along the esteemed areas the car is destined for. Inside the attention to detailed continued, with the interior being fully reupholstered in period correct grained leather. New carpets were placed throughout and the wood also received proper refurbishment. Fitted with a slew of sought after options, a Behr air-conditioning system provides cool air for summer drives and a sunroof aids in lighting and ventilation. The work done to the car was done with the utmost care and the car presents beautifully.

An already rare Mercedes Model, with only 3,270 being produced worldwide, the manual box is sure to make this a desirable car indeed. All of the work has been photo documented and accompanying the big coupe are the owner's manual, tool roll, and build sheet. These high-quality, stylish V8 powerhouses are the last of the classic, hand-built cars to come out of the Mercedes workshops in Stuttgart. They offer timeless styling and extreme luxury in a very usable package, accounting for why they are so highly prized today. This beautiful Coupe is a great way to experience the legend of the opulent and powerful 280SE 3.5, a model carrying the distinction of being one of the marque's most highly prized models of its generation.