230 bhp, 3,499 cc overhead cam fuel-injected V-8, four-speed automatic transmission, four-wheel independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes. Wheelbase: 108.3"

- Carefully maintained, with induction and fuel injection recently inspected

- Bare-metal refinish and new upholstery in 2004 and 2005

- Desirable floor-shifted automatic, A/C, Becker radio and power windows

- Complete with Mercedes-Benz certificate of authenticity

In 1968, the “New Generation” of upscale Mercedes-Benz models (S-Class) debuted. These carefully refined five-passenger automobiles continued a tradition of handcrafted quality and superior engineering, while their formal styling remains a design benchmark. The Cabriolet’s padded folding top required 16 hours of hand labor to complete, while its chassis featured advanced design and structural reinforcements providing immense rigidity and safety.

Introduced in 1970, the Mercedes 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet was identical to the standard 280SE Cabriolet, with the exception of its all-new, powerful and smooth 3.5-liter V-8. Referred to as the ‘engine of tomorrow’ by Mercedes, it produced 230 bhp, featured aluminum-alloy cylinder heads, each with a single overhead camshaft, a cast-iron block, Bosch electronic fuel injection and transistorized ignition. Acceleration was strong at 0 to 60 mph in less than 10 seconds. Only 1,232 3.5-liter V-8 Cabriolets were produced between 1969 and 1971. Apart from Mercedes' top-line 600 series, this car was the company’s flagship model, priced at a heady $14,509 when new.

The 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet offered here is an excellent example both aesthetically and mechanically. Having spent many years within the private collection of noted Mercedes-Benz collector Stuart Roffman, it received exemplary care. In 2004, it was given a bare-metal refinish in its original color of Signal Red; the following year a correct leather interior was installed, and the car was mechanically serviced, with all work performed by Mercedes-Benz expert Jim Cosgrove of Old Timer Restorations.

Acquired by the current owner in early 2007 and remaining attractive throughout, this example features a very rare and desirable floor-shifted automatic transmission, air conditioning, power windows and a Becker Europa radio, and it comes with an official Mercedes-Benz certificate of authenticity. Most recently, the V-8 engine’s induction and fuel-injection systems were thoroughly inspected, with repairs performed and parts replaced as necessary to ensure proper running order commensurate with the technical sophistication of this advanced and fine automobile.