Description
1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3. 5 Coupe (W111)
Chassis: 111. 026-12-000283
Engine: 116. 980-12-000236
64, 434 kms | Early Production | Japanese Delivery | Highly Original Example
An early-production 280 SE 3. 5 Coupe presented in exceptional preservation condition.
Chassis number 111. 026-12-000283 confirms this as the 283rd 280 SE 3. 5 Coupe produced — one of approximately 3, 270 units built worldwide.
Originally supplied new in 1970 through Western Automobile Co., Ltd. (Tokyo), the official Mercedes-Benz distributor in Japan at the time. Japanese auction documentation reports single ownership from new.
Mileage is 64, 434 kilometres — verified and fully consistent with the vehicle’s overall condition.
Factory Specification:
• 3. 5L M116 Fuel-Injected V8
• Approx. 200 HP
• Automatic Transmission
• Left-Hand Drive
• Paint Code 423 H - Light Ivory (Elfenbein)
• Interior Code 181 - Beige Leather
• Option 236 - Electric Heated Rear Window
• Option 306 - Front & Rear Headrests
• Option 420 - Automatic Transmission
• Option 506 - Right-Side Exterior Mirror
• Option 580 - Behr Air Conditioning
• Option 591 - Heat-Insulating Glass Factory Tint
Engine number 116. 980-12-000236, correct early-series unit consistent with chassis production.
Exterior Condition:
The body retains its original factory Light Ivory paint on all main panels. The roof has been professionally refinished in a contrasting brown tone for cosmetic purposes; this was a period-correct aesthetic choice and involves no structural repair.
• Integrity: All body panels appear original with correct, consistent gaps.
• Preservation: The structure is verified rust-free.
• Brightwork: Chrome and stainless trim present beautifully with only minimal, age-appropriate patina.
• Glass: Equipped with factory-tinted heat-insulating glass, essential for cabin comfort.
Interior Condition:
The cabin is an authentic time capsule, featuring the original factory beige leather. Unlike most examples of this age, this interior has not been redyed or reupholstered.
• Leather: No splits, torn seams, or collapsed bolsters. Light natural creasing on the driver's seat validates the low mileage.
• Climate: Features the highly desirable Factory Behr Air Conditioning system, integrated seamlessly into the dash.
• Woodwork: Exotic wood trim remains intact with only very light lacquer checking, typical of unrestored 1970s Mercedes-Benz craftsmanship.
• Details: Original carpets are clean; door panels remain straight and properly fitted.
Mechanical Performance:
The 3. 5L M116 V8 starts readily and settles into a smooth, silent idle.
• Drivetrain: Smooth gear changes and strong, linear torque delivery. No timing chain noise or abnormal smoke.
• Fuel System: The Bosch electronic fuel injection performs correctly with crisp throttle response.
• Braking/ Suspension: The car maintains its signature "Magic Carpet" ride quality and firm braking performance.
Summary:
This 280 SE 3. 5 represents the final evolution of the W111—the last of the hand-built Mercedes-Benz flagships. With documented single-family ownership, verified low mileage, and the rare combination of Early Production status and Factory Air Conditioning, this is a blue-chip investment piece for the serious collector.
• Japanese-delivered (Western Automobile Co.)
• Matching Numbers
• Unrestored, Original Interior
Serious enquiries only. International shipping and logistics assistance available.
