Special coupés and cabriolets have been a part of the Mercedes-Benz line-up almost continuously during its history, largely handmade on standard chassis in small numbers with luxury trim to attract customers to the showrooms and gain prestige on the boulevards. Between 1961 to 1971, the W111 chassis was the basis for a succession of such automobiles styled by Paul Bracq, who also designed the contemporaneous “pagoda” roadsters. Upgraded year by year with more powerful engines and improved amenities, the 280 SE 3.5 represented the ultimate development of this line. The model 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-litre “M116” V-8. This propelled the car to 100 km/h in under 10 seconds and could achieve a top speed of 210 km/h. These figures remain especially respectable in consideration of the 280 SE 3.5’s substantial heft—over 1,600 kilograms.

Inside the car, passengers are treated to the level of understated elegance that one would expect in a machine of this calibre and financial investment. Burled walnut dashboards and sumptuous leather seating ensured that the passengers not only drove in style, but in utmost comfort.

Due to high production costs, the coupé retailed for twice the cost of the best Cadillac on the market at the time. Nevertheless, it was the car of choice for bankers and corporate presidents, while the flashier cabriolet was in demand by Hollywood stars and starlets.

This left-hand-drive, US-market example was completed in April 1970 and is believed to have been first registered to a California resident in 1971. The luxurious cabriolet remained on the West Coast for many decades and was eventually brought to Arizona, where it is believed to have entered a private collection. Prior to returning to Europe in 2015, the Mercedes-Benz received a comprehensive restoration courtesy of a shop outside of Denver, Colorado. This process included repainting the exterior, fitting new upholstery, and overhauling the mechanical systems. Today, the vehicle presents in wonderful condition resplendent with factory-correct Midnight Blue paint over a saffron leather interior and a dark blue convertible top. Additional equipment includes a centre-mounted automatic transmission shifter, a Behr air conditioning unit, and a Becker Europa Radio.

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.