Designed by Paul Bracq, the W108 and its stablemate the long-wheelbase W109 set the standard for luxurious European cars back in the 1960s and 70s and was praised for not only its stunning looks, but also its well-appointed interior, practicality and incredible load-carrying capacity.
Introduced in 1967 as the replacement for the short-lived 250 SE, the 280 SE was visually similar, but featured the upgraded 2.8-litre fuel-injected inline-six M130 engine.
As with many of these sedans, right-hand-drive models were significantly rarer than their left-hook counterparts, making this particular UK-delivered, RHD 280 SE a very rare proposition indeed.
Finished in the unusual shade of Silver Green (Silbergruben) over a tan leather interior, this UK-supplied right-hand-drive 280 SE is in astounding condition for its age, and has clearly been cherished and cosseted throughout its lifetime.
Having been exported to Ireland and placed in long-term storage with very little use since 2013, the vendor purchased the car around two years ago and repatriated it to the UK as one of their ‘bucket list’ cars, having previously owned a W115.
During their ownership, the vehicle has been regularly used on school runs and other journeys to ensure any classic car quirks or issues arising from the long-term storage were ironed out, and as we all know, the best thing for a car is to drive it!
The vehicle has been dry stored for the majority of the current ownership as part of the vendor’s car collection. Sadly, the time has come to downsize the aforementioned collection, meaning this 280 SE is now looking for a new home with an equally-enthusiastic buyer.
Included with the vehicle is the original Mercedes-Benz data card confirming that this example is a 1972 280 SE in right-hand-drive with an automatic transmission. In addition to this the original sales booklet is present, along with a stamped service history up until 1992.
After the book was filled up, there are stacks of invoices present from 1996 to today, showing that the vehicle was fitted with a stainless steel exhaust, new brake hoses, front and rear shock absorbers and received a brake calliper rebuild during 2002, and has only covered around 10,000 miles since this work took place.
Inside, the luxurious interior of this 280 SE remains in excellent shape and presents very well indeed, conjuring up images of long trans-European road trips to far-flung places such as the French Riviera or up into the Alps for the ski season.
That’s not to say it’s absolutely perfect, there is a small rip in the lower seat base on the driver’s side, while the front passenger seat cover has come undone from the base unit.
Other than that, however, things are pretty peachy in here from what we can see. There are no other notable rips or issues, while the carpets look to be in outstanding condition with no visible stains or scuffs. The headliner is intact and free from sagging but would require a thorough valet, while the lower centre dashboard requires some tidying up to bring it back to its best.
Of note is the instrument binnacle, which has ticked over to 3,017 due to being an old-style instrument panel that cannot exceed 100,00 miles. The milage of the vehicle is therefore 103,017.
The Silver Green paintwork is in outstanding condition, and has clearly been worked on in the past, as evidenced by numerous invoices pertaining to this fact.
Regardless of whether the paint is original or not, there is no doubt that this 280 SE is in excellent shape visually, and commands an impressive road presence. There does not appear to be any notable issues with the paintwork beyond the usual stone chip here-and-there, though there is a small patch of (what appears to be) surface corrosion or a paint defect on the rear nearside passenger door.
The chrome bumpers would also benefit from a refurbishment or thorough polishing by a fastidious owner, though as they are they still present very well indeed.
All four wheels are in presentable shape but would benefit from a refurbishment, while all the light lenses look to be good and free from damage.
Underneath, the vehicle has been fully steam-cleaned and rust treated following a number of MOT advisories, meaning this 280 SE should stay solid for many years to come. There is also evidence of welding having taken place to areas such as arches and sills, which are in great shape for their age.
In the boot, the floor looks to be nice and solid along with the inner rear wings, though there are a few patches of surface corrosion and wear as seen in the photos.
Under the expansive bonnet, the 2.8-litre straight-six engine looks to be in good condition visually with no signs of any notable leaks that we can see, nor have any been reported. While the new buyer could well leave the engine alone as it sits, the vendor has suggested it would benefit from being steam-cleaned, and we’d be inclined to agree given the condition elsewhere on the vehicle.
Given its regular use transporting the vendor’s family, it’s safe to say this 280 SE is running, turning and stopping exactly as it should, and the vendor certainly hasn’t mentioned anything to the contrary.
As an added bonus, a major service has also taken place recently in March 2021 with the invoice included in the gallery below, meaning this SE is ready for its new owner to enjoy as they see fit.
Big, well-built German saloons are nothing new, but this 280 SE is from a time when many would regard Mercedes to be in their prime, and even in today’s world of supercars and hot hatches with outrageous body kits and exhausts, this behemoth of a family car will still turn more heads and gather far more attention than many would imagine.
In excellent condition throughout and with a recent service under its belt, this 280 SE is ready for the next owner to enjoy as they see fit, while still allowing scope for some minor fettling and work to bring it back to top condition.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
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1972 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE
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