Lot 624: Mercedes-Benz 280SE Convertible

Publicly displayed for the first time at the Frankfurt Auto Show in 1967, Mercedes-Benz's fifteen ‘New Generation’ models went on sale the following January. But although the fuel-injected 280SE saloon shared its bodyshell with the ‘New Generation’ 280S, the 280SE Coupe and Convertible retained the elegant looks of the outgoing 250SE that had debuted in 1959 on the 220SE; the 2,778cc overhead-camshaft six-cylinder Type M130 engine though, was all new. In fuel-injected ‘SE’ form the M130 produced 160bhp at 5,500rpm, an output sufficient to propel the manual transmission model to 118mph, with the automatic not far behind. Just as important in an age when automobile induced atmospheric pollution was becoming a hot political issue, was the fact that the M130 brought with it improved fuel economy and more efficient emission control. Production of the 280SE Coupe and Convertible totaled a little over 5,000 units between 1968 and 1972 when production ceased, and today connoisseurs of fine automobiles actively seek these timeless and elegant Grand Tourers.

This example is presented in very good condition throughout, and is finished in silver with dark blue upholstery and top.