Winning bid
£45,500

1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE Coupe (3.5 litre)

Highlights

  • Original UK-supplied right-hand drive example
  • Extensive restoration previously undertaken, chronicled by a selection of invoices and photographs which accompany the car
  • Beautifully presented throughout, benefiting from dry storage since the restoration was completed

The Appeal

The very last of Mercedes-Benz' long-lived, successful and much-admired W111s was the 280 SE Coupé, which in August of 1969 received the newly developed 200 horsepower M116 V8. Boasting a top speed of 130mph, the last of the 'Heckflosse' were by far the most impressive and so remain immensely sought-after amongst Mercedes-Benz collectors.

This 1971 example is one of the final cars built and what makes it even rarer is that it was supplied new to the UK in right-hand drive. It has been meticulously maintained fro a number of years and subject of an extensive restoration, as evidenced by a comprehensive history file that accompanies it. Since then, the 280 has been dry-stored and therefore well-preserved in readiness for its next keeper.
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History and Paperwork

  • One of the last W111s, first registered in August 1971
  • UK-supplied in right-hand drive
  • Comprehensive history file including original book pack and service booklet
  • The vendor informs us that it is accompanied by numerous invoices from Mercedes-Benz main dealers and independent specialists dating back a number of years
  • Numerous previous MOT test certificates and photos of the car following its restoration
  • Please note the private number plate is not included in the sale, will revert to EKH 813K

The Condition

  • Restored bodywork finished in a gold metallic paint
  • Presented in very good overall condition with remarkably few signs of use following the restoration
  • Plush leather upholstery which is still in lovely order
  • Zebrano woodwork
  • Period-correct Becker Mexico radio casette
  • Slight patination to the original controls, fixtures and fittings
  • The exterior brightwork looks smart and the only wear we note is some slight pitting to the boot lid badges
  • Benefiting from dry-storage since its extensive restoration
The vendor points out this car's imposing road presence, and thanks to Paul Bracq's masterful styling, a 250 SE remains an impressive sight to this day, especially in Coupé form. Having undergone an extensive restoration, this example is in fine order throughout, from the striking metallic gold paint to the plush leather upholstery and highly-figured Zebrano woodwork. It has since mellowed slightly with use, accruing a charming patina, but certainly no excessive wear.
9ctUuSHSQdTbIQfKvCTyHgdNCrRezkrBT4fHHPx4.jpg 1.08 MB

The Mechanics

  • Equipped with the M116, 3,499 cc, V8 engine
  • Automatic transmission
  • Produces 200bhp at 5,800rpm
  • Top speed of 130 mph
  • Recently treated to recommissioning work, runs and drives very well
  • The engine bay appears clean and smart
At the time, the M116 V8 was the largest engine to be fitted to a Mercedes-Benz coupé post-war, signalling the firm's intentions that the W111 should go out on a high. We're assured that this example runs very well indeed, starting readily and making rapid progress down the road when required. We're informed that the automatic gearbox selects ratios smoothly and the brakes bring the Coupé to a halt in timely fashion.
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following: 
If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies. 
A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details. 
This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only. 
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing. 
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing. 
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Auction Details

  • Year1971
  • MakeMercedes
  • ModelSE Series
  • ColourGold
  • Odometer21,799 Miles
  • Engine size3499cc
  • Seller TypePrivate
  • TownRotherfield
  • CountySussex
  • CountryUnited Kingdom
  • Auction ends

Bidding history

21 Bids

KAP••••
Bid
£45,500
22/12/23
colin.b••••
Bid
£45,000
22/12/23
rahman-••••
Bid
£44,000
22/12/23
colin.b••••
Bid
£43,000
22/12/23
rahman-••••
Bid
£42,000
22/12/23
Jimmy C••••
Bid
£41,000
22/12/23
colin.b••••
Bid
£40,500
22/12/23
Jimmy C••••
Bid
£38,988
22/12/23
colin.b••••
Bid
£37,500
22/12/23
Jimmy C••••
Bid
£35,500
22/12/23

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