08/02/2022
A Shining Star 1969 Mercedes-Benz 280SE Cabriolet in Perfection in Form and Performance.
Mercedes-Benzâs elegant Paul Bracq-designed W111 made its debut in 1959 and was produced in many variations through 1971. Among the most desirable variations were the two-door models, the 280 SE Cabriolet and Coupe, which in the great tradition of German craftsmanship, were virtually hand-built automobiles. The acres of wood trim throughout the interior were all genuine solid hardwood, accented by the gentle use of brightwork; the leather upholstery was thick and comfortable; and both the ride quality and handling were (and continue to be) superb. Perhaps unsurprisingly, these cars rapidly became favorites of international socialites and celebrities, and they were frequently seen cruising in all of the worldâs most posh destinations.
The name, 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet, is slightly confusing. Usually, youâd expect the numerical part of a Mercedesâ name to be based on engine size â and so it was with the 220 SE, 250 SE, and the earliest 280 SE, the latter of which was powered by a 2778cc, six-cylinder engine.
But in the last two years of the great W111 model series, Mercedes produced 3.5-litre V8 versions of the Coupé and Cabriolet and dubbed them 280 SE 3.5 to distinguish them from their lowlier counterparts.
In the 24 months that these final W111 models were produced, from August 1969 to July 1971, just 3,270 Coupé and 1,232 Cabriolet versions came into existence.
But itâs not just their rarity that makes them so desirable, since they also represent some of the quickest Mercedes of that era.
Their rarity, performance, handling, craftsmanship are all blended perfectly into a design that has become iconic. It is no wonder why the 280SE has become one of the most recognized classic Mercedes-Benz models sought-after by collectors today.
