1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 Coupé

• Delivered new to the USA
• Left-hand drive
• Automatic transmission
• Resident in the UK since 2014
• Professionally restored between 2022 and 2025

The 3.5-litre version of the 280 SE typifies the resurgence of larger-engined Mercedes-Benz models that began in the late 1960s and early 1970s, when the progressive easing of fiscal constraints, which had dissuaded customers from buying cars with large capacity engines, encouraged the German manufacturer to offer bigger, more potent power units. Thus the ultra-luxurious 280 SE coupé/cabriolet and 300 SEL saloon were chosen to launch Mercedes' magnificent new 3.5-litre V8 engine in 1969. An over-square design featuring a cast-iron block and aluminium-alloy cylinder heads, each equipped with a single overhead camshaft, this all-new, state-of-the-art power unit produced 200bhp courtesy of Bosch electronic fuel injection and transistorised ignition. Thus equipped, the Coupé/Cabriolet was good for 205km/h (127mph) with 100km/h (62mph) reachable in 9.5 seconds, a substantial improvement on the six-cylinder version's figures.

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

One of only 4,502 Coupé and Convertible examples produced, this most elegant top-of-the line 280 SE 3.5 V8 Coupé comes with a Mercedes-Benz dating letter stating that it was manufactured in January 1971 and sent directly to the USA. Offered with a copy State of California title, the car was resident of Florida in 2013 when it was personally shipped to the UK and registered here circa 2014. An incredibly extensive and detailed restoration has just been completed and the result is spectacular; indeed, every effort has been made to make the Mercedes look as though it has just emerged from the factory.

In the course of the rebuild the engine, gearbox, axles and suspension were removed and refurbished to 'like new' condition. Freshly rebuilt and yet to be fully run-in, the is said to start instantly pull well in all gears. Completing the picture, the car is handsomely finished in cream with chocolate brown interior boasting Mercedes' customary elegant woodwork. Accompanying documentation includes bills issued by The MB Shop Ltd of Little Clanfield, Bampton, Oxfordshire between 2022 and 2025 totalling some £49,000, and the car also comes with a V5C document and a comprehensive photographic record of the restoration (viewing recommended).