Sought-after 3.5 Cabriolet variant in EU-Specification
1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet

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

* Sought-after 3.5 Cabriolet variant with EU-Specification
* Originally delivered in factory-correct Dark Blue (Dunkelblau) with Black Leather interior; now finished in elegant Black over Cognac Leather
* Older, sympathetic restoration performed over a decade ago
* Equipped with desirable floor-shift automatic transmission
* Matching-numbers engine confirmed by factory data card


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

The example presented here is an exceptionally attractive 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet, configured in its original and most desirable European specification. As noted by its chassis number, 11102712002325, this late-production W111 Cabriolet is one of only 1,232 examples produced, representing the epitome of hand-built Mercedes-Benz luxury.

Delivered new in 1971, the car originally left the factory finished in sophisticated 744 Dunkelblau (Dark Blue), paired with a stately Black (Leder Schwarz) leather interior—an understated and classic pairing highly prized among collectors today. In recent decades, the car has been refinished in a deep, elegant Black exterior, beautifully complemented by a rich Cognac leather interior. The color change, executed during its comprehensive restoration over ten years ago, further enhances the car's already striking presence, lending a warm contrast and contemporary flair while retaining period-correct appeal.

The restoration, completed, was undertaken to a high standard and has mellowed with time into a pleasing and inviting patina befitting a cherished grand touring Cabriolet. Both the paintwork and interior remain in excellent overall condition, displaying only light evidence of age and use. The interior retrim, executed in lustrous Cognac leather, retains the factory specifications for quality and finish, with careful attention to detail extended to the wood veneers, chrome accents, and switchgear. The black soft top presents in fine order, underscoring the car's commitment to both open motoring and elegant covered motoring as needed.

Mechanically, the car boasts the sought-after and sophisticated 3,499cc M116 V8 engine, paired to an automatic floor-shift transmission—an ideal combination for effortless touring and open-road enjoyment. Retaining the original Bosch D-Jetronic fuel injection system, this 3.5 Cabriolet honors the factory's mechanical intent. According to the copy of the factory data card on file, this is the original, number-matching engine for the car.

This 280 SE appealing color combination, authentic mechanical specification, and well-maintained restoration render it a compelling proposition for the dedicated Mercedes-Benz connoisseur or enthusiast seeking a blue-chip open tourer.

In sum, this 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet presents an exceptional opportunity to acquire one of the motoring world's most coveted open classics—imbued with period charm, technical sophistication, and the enduring elegance that defines the great Mercedes-Benz automobiles. Ideal for concours display, open touring, or inclusion in any significant classic car collection, it stands ready for its next discerning custodian.