LOT 16
1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet Chassis no. 11102712000587 Engine no. 116980-12-000412
Sold for US$400,000 inc. premium
Lot 16
1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet
1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet
Chassis no. 11102712000587
Engine no. 116980-12-000412
Chassis no. 11102712000587
Engine no. 116980-12-000412
3,499cc SOHC V8 Engine
Bosch D-Jetronic Electronic Fuel Injection
200bhp at 5,800rpm
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes
* Matching numbers engine and transmission, per data card
* Delivered to European market specification (EU-Spec) with original German registration history
* Presented in factory-correct and very rare Anthracite Gray Metallic over Tan leather
* Restoration work led by Arthur Bechtel, recognized Mercedes-Benz specialist known for his authenticity and craftsmanship on 300SL models
* Accompanied by original German Kraftfahrzeugbrief, Abmeldebescheinigung, and commercial invoice documenting provenance
* 768 miles since restoration
MERCEDES-BENZ 280 SE 3.5 CABRIOLET
In the pantheon of postwar luxury automobiles, few models command the reverence, and admiration accorded the Mercedes-Benz W111-series Cabriolet, and none more so than the potent and lavishly appointed 280 SE 3.5. Introduced in late 1969, the 3.5-liter variant marked the ultimate evolution of the prestigious W111 platform, at once marrying Mercedes-Benz's storied engineering prowess with newfound V8 performance and subtle, old-world elegance.
Conceived at a time when Mercedes-Benz sought to reaffirm its leadership within the realm of open Grand Tourers, the 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet combined the sweeping, pillarless silhouette of the original Paul Bracq-penned design with significant mechanical advancements. At its heart lay the M116 V8: a single-overhead-cam, all-alloy motor of 3,499 cubic centimeters, breathing through sophisticated Bosch D-Jetronic electronic fuel injection. This combination yielded an exhilarating 200bhp, a figure that transformed the W111 Cabriolet from stately tourer to swift express, fully capable of sustained Autobahn velocities.
Hand-assembled in limited numbers at the legendary Sindelfingen works, the 3.5 Cabriolet was a singular accomplishment, blending robust German engineering with the finest materials available. The opulent interiors featured exotic wood veneers, hand-stitched leather, and finely chromed hardware—details emblematic of Mercedes-Benz's uncompromising standard of craftsmanship. Furthermore, the model's fully independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes complemented the powerful V8, ensuring dynamic poise and refined composure on both sweeping highways and sinuous country roads.
The exclusivity of the 3.5 Cabriolet was defined not only by its performance or luxury, but also by its scarcity. Just 1,232 Cabriolets were produced between 1969 and 1971, and fewer still were delivered to original European specification. Today, their desirability persists, with discerning collectors coveting unrestored examples or those returned to as-new condition by the world's foremost specialists.
The 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet enjoys an exalted reputation amongst Mercedes-Benz connoisseurs, owing to its place as the final hand-built, open-top model of the classic era. It stands as Mercedes-Benz's swan song to a world before mass production altered the automotive landscape—a graceful, V8-powered masterwork embodying both the manufacturer's technical acumen and its dedication to understated elegance.
In period, the 3.5 Cabriolet was the preferred conveyance of captains of industry, film stars, and heads of state, offering unparalleled comfort and performance in equal measure. Its effortless road manners, ample power reserves, and whisper-quiet operation set a benchmark that rivals and successors would struggle to attain.
Further elevating its appeal is the car's ability to blend discreet luxury with subtle aggression. At a glance, the casual observer might miss the discreet "3.5" badging and low, wide grille—further emphasizing its status as a sophisticated grand tourer for those who value substance over ostentation.
Today, the W111 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet stands at the zenith of postwar Mercedes-Benz collector interest, cherished for its rarity, integrity, and fully realized synthesis of performance and grace. The finest examples—those retaining their original mechanicals and finished in compelling color schemes—are considered blue-chip investments within the international collector community.
THE CAR OFFERED
Stunning in provenance and presentation, this 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet, chassis 11102712000587, represents the paragon of W111 open-air motoring.
Delivered new to its first owner, Joachim H. Lindner of Gersthofen, Augsburg, the car commenced its journey in the heart of Germany, where it would be meticulously maintained and successively registered within Bavaria. Its lineage is substantiated by an unbroken chain of German registration documents, including the original Kraftfahrzeugbrief and Abmeldebescheinigung, underscoring its authentic European specification and confirming its status as a desirable EU-market car.
Significantly, this 280 SE 3.5 preserves its factory-issued engine, number 116980-12-000412, as well as its original automatic transmission, affirming the all-important "matching numbers" pedigree so valued among Mercedes-Benz collectors. Such authenticity is further supported by the car's original color scheme—Anthrazitgrau Metallic over Tan leather—an extraordinarily rare and elegant pairing that amplifies the car's enduring visual appeal.
A comprehensive, frame-off restoration was executed by renowned marque authority Arthur Bechtel of Germany, a name synonymous with the highest standards of Mercedes-Benz craftsmanship. Throughout the process, Mr. Bechtel and his atelier adhered unwaveringly to original specifications, utilizing period-correct materials and techniques. Known for their award-winning work particularly on the famed 300SL Gullwing and Roadster, Bechtel's signature is evident in every detail of this exceptional Cabriolet, from the subtle luster of its anthracite-gray finish to the impeccable hand-stitched tan hides gracing the interior.
The car's restoration was commissioned to elevate every mechanical and cosmetic aspect to concours-standard, while ensuring functional integrity commensurate with modern collector expectations. The result is a 280 SE 3.5 that performs as impressively as it presents, benefitting from a rebuilt Bosch D-Jetronic system, overhauled suspension, and factory-correct ignition and instrumentation. The restoration's documentation, including a commercial invoice for $312,000 from Bechtel Motorcompany GmbH, accompanies the car, affirming both the investment in its rebirth and the caliber of workmanship applied throughout.
The car has traveled a mere 768 miles since the completion of its restoration, positioning it as a virtually fresh and unspoiled example—ideal for concours exhibition or gentle touring. The integrity of its presentation is further enhanced by its historic registration status (plate MB FM4 H) and inclusion of original chassis documentation, reaffirming its continuous German provenance prior to its recent exportation to Canada in May 2024.
This 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet offers an unparalleled opportunity to acquire one of the most sought-after open Mercedes-Benz models of the postwar era, endowed with pedigree, provenance, and peerless presentation. For the discerning collector seeking an investment-grade example restored by one of Germany's preeminent specialists, chassis 11102712000587 presents itself as a true exemplar—ready for immediate enjoyment, prestigious display, or inclusion within the world's most significant automotive collections.
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