Description
1971 Mercedes-Benz 280S Manual (W108) – A One-Owner Time Capsule
There are cars that have been “restored,” and then there are cars that never needed to be.
This 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280S (W108) is the latter—a pristine, untouched masterpiece, preserved in such a way that it feels like stepping back into a Mercedes-Benz showroom of the early 1970s.
A Life of Care & Privilege
Cherished from new by a single farmer owner in the dry, sun-drenched Colesberg district, this car has never seen harsh winters, salty roads, or careless hands. With a genuine 106, 000 miles, this impeccable survivor remains as honest and true as the day it left Stuttgart.
No rust, no rot, no disappointments. Just German engineering, preserved.
The Pinnacle of Classic Mercedes-Benz Elegance
The W108 Series was Mercedes-Benz at its absolute finest—over-engineered, built like a vault, and designed to last lifetimes. The moment you close the door, you feel it: the solid, reassuring “thunk” that modern cars could never replicate.
This example, finished in original DB180 Silver, remains deep, lustrous, and factory correct. The panel gaps are perfect, the brightwork still gleams, and every line remains crisp and unblemished—a true testament to a life spent in dry storage and careful hands.
A Driving Experience of Pure Mechanical Perfection
Beneath the long, elegant bonnet rests Mercedes’ legendary M130 inline-six, an engine celebrated for its silken refinement and bulletproof reliability. Paired to a rare and desirable manual gearbox, it transforms this W108 into a driver’s car, giving you direct control over every ounce of its effortless torque and smooth power delivery.
The hydraulic steering is light yet communicative, the suspension floats over imperfections, and the car glides down the road with an authority that only a hand-built, flagship Mercedes-Benz can deliver.
This particular 280S has been meticulously tuned and maintained by Mercedes-Benz master Thomas Kershaw, with new Bilstein shocks and major recent mechanical work ensuring that it remains in peak condition.
An Interior That Whispers of a Bygone Era
Step inside, and the factory-original blue basket weave leather trim greets you in flawless condition—soft, supple, and untouched by time. No cracks, no wear, no excuses.
The walnut veneer remains rich and deep, the dash unmarked, and proudly in place is the original 280S radio blanking plate, just as it left the factory. This is a cabin that has never been neglected, never been tampered with, and remains a shrine to 1970s Mercedes-Benz craftsmanship. A Collector’s Opportunity – An Investment in Perfection
This isn’t just any classic Mercedes-Benz—this is an original, unrestored, time-capsule example, a car that genuinely cannot be replicated.
As a seasoned and respected collector, I have always sought out the very best, and this W108 is without question one of the finest in existence. However, due to the ongoing political instability in South Africa, I am liquidating my private collection, offering discerning buyers a rare chance to acquire a piece of automotive history in its purest form.
Worldwide Shipping – Professional, Safe & Secure
For international buyers, I have negotiated a special shipping rate with Freight Factory, ensuring that this car is transported safely and professionally to any port worldwide. Whether you’re in Europe, the USA, the Middle East, or Australia, this Mercedes will arrive exactly as it left—flawless.
This is an heirloom-quality classic, an example that will never come again.
Serious buyers only. The right buyer will understand exactly what this is.
