For the buyers who were in the market for a convertible in the early 1970s, there was no finer choice in the world than the 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet. It was the fastest, most lavish, and most expensive convertible offered by Mercedes-Benz, arguably the finest automobile manufacturer in the world at the time, making this a very special automobile indeed.

The 280 SE 3.5 appealed, then as now, to those who appreciate the finest things in life, and the car more than lived up to those expectations. The 280 SE 3.5 closely resembles the six-cylinder 280, but the similarities end there. The top-of-the-line model offered a reliable 233 brake horsepower provided by the brand-new 3.5-liter M116 V-8. This propelled the car to 60 mph in under 10 seconds and could achieve a top speed of 130 mph. That was, and still is, highly respectable performance for a full-size luxury convertible weighing over 3,600 pounds. Inside the car, passengers are treated to the level of understated elegance that one would expect in a machine of this caliber and financial investment. Burled walnut dashboards and sumptuous leather seating ensured that the passengers not only drove in style, but in utmost comfort.

This 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet is finished in silver with a blue convertible top. It rides on chrome knock-off wire wheels wrapped in Continental tires. The interior is trimmed in blue leather, accented by a wood dash and trim. It features A Behr air-conditioning unit, dash clock, Blaupunkt AM/FM radio with cassette, and a wood-rimmed Nardi steering wheel.

As one of the most desirable luxury vehicles of the early 1970s, this 280 SE 3.5 would make for a wonderful acquisition for the individual looking for a sophisticated convertible that will never go out of style.