Highlights
• Showing only 67,500 miles from new
• Was part of the Leon Coertzen collection
• Immaculate interior
• Very clean exterior
• Comprehensive service totalling £4,500
• Was part of the Leon Coertzen collection
• Immaculate interior
• Very clean exterior
• Comprehensive service totalling £4,500
The Background
The Mercedes W108 280SE carried on a great reputation of robust build quality and luxury that had been started by its predecessors and sold in strong numbers.
This robust build quality and reliable engine options stood it in good stead to be both a favoured executive saloon and latterly a good service vehicle such as taxis in hotter climates.
The History
This particular car formed part of a prestigious collection belonging to Leon Coertzen, the largest Mercedes collector in South Africa, right up until his death 2 years ago.
Having spent its whole life in Bloemfontein, SA, the car has only experienced a dry climate and as such is in remarkably original and solid condition.
As one would expect, the 280 SE needed some minor items to be recommissioned, which were carried out earlier in the year prior to its import to the UK.
The Paperwork
Most importantly, included in the cars history file are invoices for a comprehensive service carried out to the tune of £4,500 and in preparation for the car to be enjoyed by its next custodian. Having been part of a prestigious collection, the car has clearly been well-looked after, however now once can be sure it is ready for the next chapter of its life!
The vehicle also comes with the UK Registration documentation and the import paperwork for which all duties have been paid.
The vehicle also comes with the UK Registration documentation and the import paperwork for which all duties have been paid.
The Interior
The car’s interior is a tan biscuit colour and is in fantastic condition. It may have benefitted from a retrim at some point as it certainly doesn’t seem to have been used much but then it is a very low mileage vehicle, especially considering that the car is 50 years old!
Coming from South Africa this car has factory A/C which has just been reconditioned also so its icy cold.
There is a retro styled head unit fitted that has modern capabilities and as is common with imports from warmer climates the windows have a light tint to stop the sun bleaching everything.
The steering wheel is a joy to hold and the dash etc, a common area for drying and cracking is in fine order.
The car has a column shift which works perfectly well.
It really is a lovely place to be.
The Exterior
The first thing you'll notice is the colour which is an unusual colour but one that suits it rather well and will definitely turn heads, especially with the contrasting chrome work and the biscuit/tan coloured interior.
The wheels are wearing the original Mercedes hub caps and are colour coded and the overall package looks great.
The chrome work is in great condition also and there are but a few minor blemishes which is fantastic for a 50 year old vehicle.
The Mechanics
As mentioned the car spent some time as part of a collection in South Africa and as such wasn’t used in anger for a period so prior to export to the UK the car was recommissioned with anything needing attention duly receiving it.
Friso Garage in South Africa undertook the work and the following has been done (early 2021)
New Fuel tank, New filters and fuel pump, Brake master cylinder and caliper kits, new tyres and battery.
The car starts stops and drives well and doesn’t feel like a big executive saloon at all, it’s a pleasure to be behind the wheel.
Being a 1972 model it has the uprated SE/SL.
The Appeal
The W108 280 comes from a time when Mercedes were renowned for their build quality and ergo the longevity of their vehicles.
It’s a large saloon car filled with luxury trimmings and ample safety features and tech for a 1972 car but don’t think that it’s a chore to drive because its not. It glides along and would be a lovely Sunday driver.
With its rare colour combo, low mileage and stunning condition, this one is definitely worth a proper look. What a beauty.
Notice to bidders
Notice to bidders
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