Completed at Mercedes-Benz’s Stuttgart factory in October of 1970, this 1971 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet was built as a US-market delivery example and finished in DB180 Silber Grau Metallic over Black leather. It was originally fitted with a light grey convertible top. Options above the standard features for this example included a Becker Europa Stereo, Automatic Antennae, Tray Pad, Front Center Folding Armrest, BEHR Air-Conditioning, Electric Power Windows, Tinted Glass, and White-Side Wall Tires. The car’s original MSRP was $14,537. The W111 280SE 3.5 V8 Cabriolet production numbers consisted of only 1232 cars produced, at a rate of 13 cars completed per week during the entire run of the model’s production. The 3.5 V8 M116 engine was the first post-war Mercedes offered in excess of 3 liters of displacement. It produced 200 bhp & a top speed of 127 mph. This model was also equipped with Bosch Fuel Injection, a load-leveling system, and four-wheel power disc brakes. All of which were state-of-the-art for 1971. The other distinctive visual queues of a 3.5 V8 car are the lower and wider front grill. As one of the top-of-the-range offerings from Mercedes-Benz in 1971, these cars were always considered special. With its elegant lines, luxury appointments, and the addition of actual performance figures, the 3.5 beat many other luxury convertibles in the marketplace when new, just in terms of drivability and handling. These cars were in a class all to themselves. Hence, these rare examples of German engineering have continued to be sought by ardent collectors 54 years after production ended.

This W111 is an exceptionally well-documented three-owner car. The current ownership is in its forty-first year. Originally sold new in Louisville, KY, by Tafel Motors, the car remained with its first owner for roughly ten years. In Lexington, KY, the second owner retained the car briefly, selling it to the third and current owner in 1983. The car relocated to Gainesville, Florida, where it has remained since, and is being offered for sale from that third owner’s estate.

All three previous caretakers meticulously serviced the car with either the original MB dealer in Kentucky or later with a master MB tech for 40 years here in Florida. The comprehensive service, maintenance, and cosmetic restoration records dating from 1971 to the present time are included with the car. In total, there are in excess of 150 repair orders and invoices. The car’s files also include the original sales documents, including the factory data cards, factory window sticker, and the original purchase agreement.

Cosmetically, the car presents well. The panel fit is excellent. The characteristic Mercedes “bank vault” thud is heard when the doors are closed. Visually, while the paintwork is not new, it is in good condition with only minor flaws from age and use. Noted blemishes are two dings; one is located on the trunk lid (between the star and the 280 badge), and the second is a very shallow ding on the right side of the hood toward the cowl section at the base of the windshield.

The interior was previously retrimmed with the correct leather. The seats are firm yet supportive, traditional seats found in all Mercedes-Benz products from that era. The factory zebrano wood was restored previously and contained a lively figure. The convertible top was also renewed previously and is free of cosmetic issues or shrinkage. The headliner is in excellent condition, and the rear window is clear. All lights, power windows, and components are in working order. The car runs and drives exceptionally well. Michelin black wall tires are currently mounted on the vehicle. The factory BEHR Air-Conditioning is functional. The system is still running the original R12 refrigerant.

The naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V8 produces reasonable power, especially when needed. These are heavy cars. The V8’s power is a significant advantage and justifies the desirability of the V8 cars over the earlier 6-cylinder vehicles. The 4-speed automatic transmission shifts through the gears smoothly. Unlike many older cars, this one is quite happy at highway speeds. These Mercedes cabriolets are known for being fantastic long-range tour cars, along with their great looks, comfort, and dependability.

When new, the magazine Car & Driver commented on the car during a road test. While a little pompous, it makes one see how unique these cars were.

“If you feel obligated to ask about the price, you will not only understand the car, but you will also have branded yourself incapable of ever appreciating its virtues even if someone gave you one.” Car & Driver, September 1970, on the Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5.

The car is located in Gainesville, Florida. In-person inspections are highly encouraged and must be arranged in advance. The vehicle is being sold AS/IS WHERE IS. Please inquire with all questions.