1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5 V8 Coupe

Eight years after the original six-cylinder 220SE range of stylish coupes and cabriolets was been launched in 1961, Mercedes-Benz cars reworked the stylish W111 range to include a new V8-powered model designed to appeal to the American market.  Unveiled at the Frankfurt show in 1969, the 280SE 3.5 would become the final variation of this popular series and is now easily the most desirable model for collectors.  The new V8, codenamed M116 by Stuttgart’s engineers, employed a five bearing crankshaft, a single overhead camshaft per bank and used Bosch’s latest electronic fuel injection system.  This exceptionally refined engine developed a healthy 200 bhp at 5800 rpm and was usually found mated to a four-speed automatic transmission, although a small number of manual cars were built.  As the flagship of the Mercedes-Benz range, the 280SE 3.5 Coupe and Cabriolet were given revised styling to go with the new engines, with a lower and wider version of the famous grille, plus stacked headlamps.  The beautifully appointed cabin was trimmed in leather hides or cloth with a rich timber facia and featured amenities like power windows and a four-speaker stereo, while air conditioning was optional.  With production only lasting until 1971, the 280SE 3.5 Coupe is a rare car indeed and in total just 245 were produced with right-hand drive.  Most of those went to England, with just a handful delivered new into Australia.  Such was the level of technology and engineering found on these cars, the 280SE 3.5 can still be enjoyed on a daily basis and the coupes continue to offer superb value for money, with cabriolet prices now at stratospheric levels.