Car & Classic Verified Dealer

1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet (W111) #2157 1 of 68 made For Sale

Silver Grey (180) with Blue Leather and Air Conditioning

A seminal car in the Mercedes-Benz back catalogue, the 220, 250, 280 and 280 3. 5 Cabriolets make up four of the most iconic, desirable and collectible vehicles ever produced by the Stuttgart brand. The W111 would be replaced by the W108 and then W116, ultimately evolving into the S Class we know and love – a car that became synonymous with safety, reliability, luxury, taste and performance.

The 280 SE 3. 5 was the final incarnation of this divine cabriolet, replacing the 280SE in August 1969 and remaining in production until end of the W111 in July 1971.

At just over 1. 6 tons the 2. 2 litre M127 engines fitted to the 220SE Cabriolet and it’s 118hp output could be described as adequate, but not ample. Although the 2. 5 litre replacement alleviated the perceived power deficit somewhat, it wasn’t until the 280SE and then 280 3. 5 V8 that the car really got the power plant that it’s weight and stature deserved. It is this ‘end of the line’ 3. 5 V8 engine that makes the 280SE 3. 5 Cabriolet the car that all collectors seek.

This was Mercedes’ first post-war passenger car with more than 3. 0 litres displacement, utilising the all new M116 3499cc V8 engine with a punchy 200hp. The new engine gave the big cabriolet a top speed of 130mph, ample power for transporting four people with grace and pace.

Owned by the upper echelons of society, the lawyers, bankers and Hollywood stars who loved these cars enjoyed a luxurious interior flush with the chrome, leather and burred walnut.

Total production numbers for the 220, 250 280 and 280 3. 5 Cabriolets combined stretch to less than 6, 500 units – not nearly enough to satiate worldwide demand for these palatial open motorcars.

Just 1, 232 280SE 3. 5 Cabriolets were built in this period, 1, 164 of which were left hand drive.

That leaves just 68 right hand drive cars, making this an extremely rare motor car.

This car boasts a fantastically royal colour scheme for a car fit for kings and queens.

A superb opportunity to acquire one one of the most iconic, desirable and collectible Mercedes-Benz cars of all time.

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As Europe’s leading SL specialist, it is our duty to select only the very best examples of the many cars we are offered. Our showroom has been hand picked to give us a wide variety of cars from across the decades. Every car has to pass rigorous inspections and checks before being offered for sale. Our cars are prepared and detailed to the highest standards.

With each car we offer a full hand over, showing you the ropes, walking around the car and introducing you before handing over the keys. Our reputation as an industry leader in classic car sales is built on matching the perfect car to the right customer.

When you buy an SLSHOP classic Mercedes-Benz you are buying more than just a motorcar. With our service and parts department, events and experiences you’ll soon feel like part of the family. We want our customers to enjoy these cars, and offer a range of ideas and inspirations to get you out on the road.

Each car featured has an extensive 2 year mechanical warranty and 3 year bulkhead warranty. It is this attention to detail and our exceptional after service support that put an SLSHOP car head and shoulders above all others.

Whether you are looking for an SL to suit your home, or want to find a new home for your SL, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

To discuss any of the vehicles we have for sale please contact Bruce Greetham on the details below, thank you.

This advert has now been removed through sale or otherwise.
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