Lot 236: 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet

Prior to World War II, Daimler-Benz was best known for its powerful and expensive supercharged S, SS, SSK, 500K and 540K sports and touring cars, as well as for the formidable Grand Prix cars that dominated the European race tracks of the mid and late 1930s.

Following World War II, the first Mercedes-Benz models to emerge from the Stuttgart factory were far from the world-beaters of the decade before. Although unquestionably well-engineered and carefully-constructed, the 170V of 1946 was a much more modest car than the long-hooded and supercharged confections of the 1930s. At first powered by a 1,697cc gasoline engine, as soon as the occupying forces granted approval, a diesel version was introduced. Decidedly prewar in design and appearance, the plebian 170 offered sturdy and reliable transportation, although it was hardly inexpensive at approximately $1,860.

Daimler-Benz developed the 170 throughout the late 1940s and into the early 1950s, by which time it had received a larger and more powerful engine. It served as a key model to help the company regain its financial footing in war-ravaged Germany. Superseded by the 220 in March 1954, the model had served its purpose admirably. The six-cylinder 220, as well as the top of the range 300, was part of a line-up that paved the way for the cars that would see the company into the 1960s and beyond. The formula combined a strong inline six, a modern chassis and a roomy but conservatively style body with superb mechanical design and execution.

The conservative design principles that had helped restore Mercedes-Benz to health and a position of prestige was continued into the bigger, upmarket W-108 series cars first introduced in 1965. The new 250S and 250SE were fitted with a 2,496cc version of the company’s overhead camshaft straight six. Initially rated at 130 horsepower, another 20 were added thanks to Bosch mechanical fuel injection. More power came with the 300SE and SEL (also fuel-injected), which were rated at 170 horsepower.

In 1967, the 280 series cars were introduced with the new M130 straight-six engine. With a carburetor, the new all-alloy power unit was good for 140 horsepower. Increased power, better fuel economy and greater drivability were standard equipment with the fuel injected 280SE that also came along that year.

But there was more power still in store for the 280 in 1970 when it was shown in Amsterdam with a 3.5-liter V-8 rated at 230 horsepower. From the outside, little more than badging gave the 280SE 3.5 away as being something very much out of the ordinary.

Standard equipment included that silky smooth V-8, which made its considerable power thanks to mechanical fuel injection and electronic ignition. Other important features included a ZF four-speed automatic transmission, fully independent suspension and four-wheel disc brake. Power steering, brakes and windows were also part of the package clothed by the restrained skin which was available in either or cabriolet versions.

Whether the 280SE 3.5 was ordered in coupe or even more elegant cabriolet form, the interior featured luxurious upholstery trimmed with fine leather, rich carpeting and highly polished wood veneers. The build quality was second to none.

Underneath the restrained skin was a very sophisticated package, which included the injected V-8, four-speed automatic transmission, fully independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes.

The car on offer is a 1971 cabriolet finished in a period dark brown hue with its original tobacco interior. When new, it was a very expensive car—selling for approximately $14,500—and every detail shows its quality. Unrestored, the current owner has invested much to have it sympathetically maintained. In fine condition and showing just 80,000 miles on its odometer, it is perfectly suited as elegant daily transportation or for fine weather cruising and touring. Offered with a Certificate of Title.