1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SE3.5

Introduced to the world in 1959, the W111 platform would become one of Mercedes-Benzs most versatile workhorses, underpinning a vast array of models all the way into the early 1970s. The unibody design featured independent front and swing-axle rear suspension and the platform was used for Taxicabs (W110), luxury sedans (W112), handsome coupes, and glamorous cabriolets. Even the W113 SL roadster owes much of its mechanical makeup to the W111. Engines were equally varied, ranging from robust four-cylinder diesels to the potent M116 overhead-cam V8.

The drivers choice of the vast W111 range is undoubtedly the V8-powered 280SE 3.5. Produced in the legendary Sindelfingen factory these cars were virtually hand built to a very high standard, using the finest materials and fittings. The elegant, pillarless coupe offered luxury and style on par with the vastly more expensive Bentley T-Series coupe, with exceptional reliability and refinement. The two-door W111 models are regarded as the most desirable post-war Mercedes-Benz models this side of the 300SL, and much like buyers in the 1970s did, todays enthusiasts cherish the 280SE 3.5 for its relaxed, highly refined road manners, outstanding performance, and effortless usability.

Presented handsomely in its original color scheme of Silver Grey Metallic (DB180) over an optional Black roof (DB040) this 1971 280SE 3.5 Coupe is a very attractive, highly optioned example that is ideal for the driver/collector to enjoy on the regular. This car is documented with a wealth of original paperwork including correspondence between the original owner and selling dealer. A copy of the window sticker on file reveals it was sold by Siggi Grimm Motors in Tulsa, Oklahoma, with an MSRP of $13,675 more than $110,000 in todays money. Befitting a top-line 3.5 coupe, this car was optioned with two-tone paint, black leather upholstery, floor-shift automatic transmission, Behr air-conditioning, electric windows, tinted glass, center arm rest, automatic antenna and a Becker Europa stereo.

The car was sold new to A.W. Chandler, on a trade against a 1967 Chrysler station wagon. It seems Mr. Chandler was rather meticulous, as he returned the car several times to the dealership with increasingly terse notes related to the dealers ability (or lack thereof) to sort some minor quibbles. It seems, however, that the car was eventually sorted, as it stayed in the family for over a decade. A tax receipt on file shows that in 1976, A.W. Chandler gifted the car to his daughter Christine, and it appears to have remained in the family until at least the early 1980s. Since 2008, it has been in the care of a marque enthusiast and collector, who also owned a 300SL for decades, so the SE was undoubtedly in good company.

As offered here, this elegant Mercedes-Benz reflects its years of attentive care. It is in excellent condition and remarkably well preserved overall. It looks to have been cosmetically freshened as required over time yet appears to have never been fully disassembled and restored. It retains its original M116 V8 engine, confirmed by the original window sticker which lists the engine serial number. These cars are renowned for their exceptional quality, and this cars highly original condition is a testament to that reputation while the many years it spent in the dry Oklahoma climate undoubtedly helped its chances of survival.

With the refined V8 engine out front and a litany of desirable options, this well-preserved and handsome 280SE 3.5 is a wonderful example to drive and enjoy at every opportunity such as tours, long-distance rallies, or weekend jaunts through the countryside. These cars are renowned for their exceptional drivability, refinement and braking performance, making them feel much younger than their 55+ years.

In whatever way you choose to enjoy it, this eminently desirable 280SE 3.5 is poised to deliver many miles of luxurious motoring from an era at Mercedes-Benz when building the worlds highest quality automobiles mattered above all else.

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