In the early 1970s, Mercedes-Benz built what many people believe was the finest automobile in the world, and 1971 was the only year that this model (802 vehicles) was imported into the United States. For the buyers who wanted wind in their hair, there was no finer choice than the 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet, which, combined with the powerful 3.5-liter V-8, was the fastest, most sumptuous, and most expensive convertible that money could buy at a Mercedes-Benz dealership. It was a car that appeals, then and now, to great enthusiasts.

This lovely tan with saddle interior and brown convertible top example received one repaint in 1998; a new soft-top in 2004 and its new interior in 2009. Along with the respected V-8 engine, the Mercedes-Benz is equipped with an automatic transmission, radio, bucket seats, console, dashboard clock, air conditioning, elegant interior wood trim elements; power windows, top, steering and brakes.

In period, Car & Driver magazine staff spent two weeks of trying to find fault, they asked, “How can you fail to like it, when it keeps proving that it is your friend?” It would be simple enough to find other 1971 cars that could exceed the 280SE 3.5’s individual strengths: a Six-Pack Dodge would annihilate it at a stoplight, it would be out-handled by a BMW CSL, a Ferrari Daytona had 50-mph higher top speed, and a Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow was still the last word in luxury. But no Silver Shadow was a friend to have when negotiating a twisting mountain road; and no one bought a Charger or CSL for the interior accommodations. Mercedes’ unique strength was to combine excellence in design, engineering, performance, and luxury into a package widely regarded as the best car in the world. Production of the model began in August 1969 and continued through to July 1971. In 24 months, total production was 3,270 coupes and 1,232 cabriolets, making these not only one of the fastest and most interesting Mercedes of their era but also one of the rarest and most expensive.