The Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 models are not only some of the most timelessly elegant creations of the Stuttgart firm: They are also, famously, among the last truly hand-crafted automobiles from the manufacturer. A total of 1,232 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolets were completed between 1969 and 1971, for an average of only about 13 per week—which is easy to believe when one considers that 16 hours of hand labor are said to have gone into the convertible tops alone!

The attention to detail and intricate craftsmanship that went into these rare cars becomes readily apparent during restoration, when the brilliant engineering and skilled labor behind every component must be carefully matched and re-created. Fortunately, that is precisely what has happened with the 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet offered here.

Built in August 1970, this US-market cabriolet was desirably equipped from the factory with a floor-shift automatic transmission, Behr air conditioning, power windows, a driver’s side rearview mirror, and a Becker Europa stereo with automatic antenna. It was finished in Dark Red over Black leather with a Black convertible top—an unusual and attractive combination that is very rarely seen today.

As documented by photos on file, the highly regarded marque experts at Germany’s Brabus Classic were enlisted by the consignor to perform a no-expense-spared complete restoration of this magnificent Mercedes-Benz. Every item was carefully disassembled and refurbished before being reassembled—essentially retracing the footsteps of Mercedes-Benz artisans a half-century ago—before it was refinished in its factory-correct Dark Red over Black. Equal attention was paid to all mechanical systems, including its 3.5-liter V-8, to ensure that this Mercedes-Benz’s stately appearance is backed up by seamless performance. The car’s odometer was reset during its restoration, and its present reading of under 3,000 miles indicates just how little road use it has seen since. Notably, it retains its numbers-matching engine.

Sporting rarely seen colors that only enhance this model’s classic elegance, and accompanied by tools and owner’s manuals, as well as a copy of its factory data card, this beautifully restored 1970 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet is surely one of the finest examples of this landmark Mercedes-Benz available anywhere.