Descrizione
1973 Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3. 5 (W108)
The Mercedes-Benz W108 and W109 replaced the iconic fintail fendered ‘Heckflosse’ saloons that had arrived in 1959, introducing a smarter new style with the stacked headlamps at the leading edge of the elegant Paul Bracq design.
This would be the Mercedes-Benz that would morph into the Sonderklass cars that we know and love today, the car that gave way to the 116 in 1972 and eventually the 126 and 140 models that many people instantly associate with the term ’S Class’.
Shown here is the pinnacle of early 1970s elegance and status, in the form of a Silver Grey 280SE 3. 5. The 3. 5 designation alludes to the 3. 5 litre V8 engine mounted in front of the driver, with this car being one of 11, 309 built between July 1970 and September 1972.
The 3499cc M116 V8 engine produces just under 200hp, which in 1972 was a not insigincant amount for a luxurious saloon car. For a little context, the Ferrari 328 of the same year produced just 52hp more with a stated output of 252hp!
Coming from a small private collection, this well cherished car even has the original warranty document dated 27th December 1972, which surely makes it one of the very last 280SE 3. 5s produced. With a fully stamped service book and a verified ownership history, this little saloon is quite the proposition. First arriving on our radar in early 2021, the car was taken in part exchange against a very high end SL and joined our showroom stock just recently. In the time between the car arriving on site and being presented on the showroom it has undergone significant preparation work. Upon arrival at SLSHOP this Silver Grey car had a contrasting black roof and black painted chrome wheel trims, but the decision was taken to return the car to it’s all silver combination for a more sophisticated look. The roof and wheels were professionally stripped and painted, with any paintwork that required improvement being dealt with at the same time. It’s not just the aesthetics where this car has been fettled, mechanically our 1960s workshop have been through this car top to bottom, with the engine and braking system getting special attention to ensure this car starts, runs and drives as well as it possibly can.
Insider and out this is every inch a prime cut of luxury from the upper echelons of society from the early 1970s. Well presented, prepared and given the complete SLSHOP treatment, this wonderful saloon is ready to transport you wherever your imagination might wish. Be it Goodwood, the Coast or that evening Dinner and Drinks, this is the perfect statement transport.
At £39, 995 with all the depreciation well out of the way and planted firmly on an upward trajectory, against the £74, 000 list price of a brand new S class this V8 powered 1970s Sonderklass looks to be somewhat of a steal.
Simply wonderful.
