Over £16,200 in documented expenditure, including a specialist engine overhaul
Imported from Germany; previously maintained in Italy before UK registration
Cooling system comprehensively refreshed with a re-cored radiator and NOS Mercedes-Benz components
Retains period exterior patina
Proved its reliability on a long-distance tour from northern Spain through France to the UK
The Appeal
Hailing from an era when Mercedes-Benz engineering and build quality were at their very best, the Mercedes-Benz 280SE is widely regarded as one of the most refined saloons of its generation. Powered by the smooth M130 inline-six, the 280SE was renowned for its supreme cruising ability - the perfect car for crossing continents in opulent luxury.
Affectionately known as 'Mettleblau' by its current owner, this example has benefited from over £16,200 in documented expenditure during its time in the UK. A major engine overhaul in 2020, carried out by specialist Steve Redfearn, formed the centrepiece of this work, with continued and methodical attention in the years since.
The exterior reportedly retains its original patina with only minor areas requiring attention on close inspection, while the vendor notes some sun damage to the interior, a cracked dashboard, a cracked windscreen, and a split in the driver's seat.
Prior to much of the UK-based maintenance, this 280SE completed a tour from northern Spain through France to the UK without issue. With its thorough maintenance trail and honest presentation, it offers a compelling proposition as a usable, well-sorted classic.260418-mercedes-benz-280se-179-large.jpeg253.13 KB
Key Information
Mileage: 67,000 km (indicated, unwarranted)
Country of registration: UK
Technical inspection status: MOT and road tax exempt
Major service carried out in February 2026, including oil, filter, and antifreeze
Front and rear shock absorbers replaced in February 2026
Wheel bearing kit and spark plugs replaced in February 2026
Front and rear lights replaced in February 2026
Four new Dynamo 195/70-14 tyres fitted in June 2023
V-belts replaced with genuine Mercedes-Benz parts in June 2023
Interim service carried out in May 2023; cracked windscreen and wheel bearing play noted at that time (bearing since addressed)
Radiator re-cored from two to three cores in November 2022
NOS Mercedes-Benz water radiator installed in late 2022
New alternator fitted in October 2022
Bison Premium 110 battery installed in June 2022
Headlights retrofitted for UK/EU compliance in June 2022
New bumper rubber seals and rocker panel side mouldings fitted in July 2022
Spark plugs, oil filter, fan belt, and water pump replaced in April 2022
Major engine overhaul carried out in August 2020 by specialist Steve Redfearn, including a cylinder head rebuild, brake system refresh, and cooling system overhaul (£8,843)
Underbody cleaned and treated with Ferox anti-corrosion treatment in June 2020
Rear seatbelts fitted in June 2020
Interior carpets and door/dashboard trims replaced in 2019 while the car was in Italy
The vendor describes the exterior as being in good condition with original patina, noting a couple of minor patches needing attention, only visible on close inspection
The vendor notes sun damage to the interior, a crack in the dashboard, a crack in the windscreen, and a split in the driver's seat
260418-mercedes-benz-280se-154-large.jpeg259.91 KB BEFORE YOU BUY This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following: ✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions.. ✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates. ✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind. ✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing. ✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence. ✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle. ✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand..
