This accurately restored 1971 280SE 3.5-liter coupe was sold new in Santa Monica, California, and lived there until 2002 when it was purchased by a collector from Kansas. In his stewardship, the car was restored, including a complete rebuild of its original engine and transmission in 2012. The car has been beautifully finished in its original color combination of 906G Grey Blue Metallic with a fabulous original black leather interior. The leather seats, fabulous zebra wood, door panels and headliner are in excellent condition showing hardly any signs of wear.

This being a desirable floor shift model, it is also equipped with its correct Becker Europa radio and Behr air conditioning. The fit and finish of the body panels is excellent and the body lines are crisp and clear. The chrome and stainless trim items are excellent. Under the hood, the engine bay is very well detailed. Inside and out, this is really a great example that is ready to drive and enjoy. Included with the car are restoration receipts and the original owner’s manual, service booklet with stamps, and the chassis book in the original pouch.

These were the last of the hand built Mercedes, and this fabulous example has been well maintained throughout its life and careful inspection reveals that it has always been a well-cared for and solid vehicle prior to its restoration, a testament to that original build quality. Many astute collectors feel that 280SE 3.5 coupes are among the best looking and most collectible cars of the era. These extremely comfortable tourers offer their owners the optimum amount of performance and comfort and are considered highly usable classics. Only 4,502 of these cars, in both coupé and cabriolet form, were sold between 1969 and 1971.