"For UK-based buyers, a highly competitive fixed-rate shipping quote has been secured for: £1,500 via Freight Factory for all cars sold by this seller on auction.
Global shipping options also available, contact henry@freightfactory.co.za for estimated shipping quotes"
Global shipping options also available, contact henry@freightfactory.co.za for estimated shipping quotes"
Highlights
- Rare right-hand drive example with manual transmission
- Well-preserved Cognac perforated leather interior
- Recently fitted with new Bilstein shocks on all four corners
- Dry-stored in arid South African climate, free from rust issues
The Appeal
The W116 series Mercedes-Benz holds a special place in automotive history as the first official "S-Class" - a model line that would come to define luxury motoring for decades. When Mercedes-Benz set out to create the W116, their goal was simple yet ambitious: build the best car in the world. This 1976 280S represents the purest expression of that philosophy, offering the legendary S-Class experience in its most honest, uncomplicated form.
What makes this particular example so compelling is its remarkable preservation, rare manual transmission, and the fact it has spent its life in the arid Klein Karoo region of South Africa - protecting it from the corrosion that typically affects these models. With recent mechanical refurbishment including new Bilstein shocks and a rebuilt carburettor, this 280S offers the perfect blend of originality and readiness for continued enjoyment.
What makes this particular example so compelling is its remarkable preservation, rare manual transmission, and the fact it has spent its life in the arid Klein Karoo region of South Africa - protecting it from the corrosion that typically affects these models. With recent mechanical refurbishment including new Bilstein shocks and a rebuilt carburettor, this 280S offers the perfect blend of originality and readiness for continued enjoyment.
History and Paperwork
- First registered in 1976 to a farmer in Uniondale, in the Klein Karoo region of South Africa
- Part of a carefully curated private collection in Central South Africa
- 153,000 km (95,000 miles) shown on the odometer
- Stored in a custom-built facility in an arid climate, protecting it from coastal air damage
- Recent maintenance includes new Bilstein shocks, clutch and brake hydraulic system renewal, carburettor rebuild, and major service
- International shipping options available via Freight Factory at pre-negotiated rates of £1,500 from Cape Town to Felixstowe, UK
The Condition
- Finished in Mercedes-Benz Pastel Beige paintwork that presents well overall
- Original Cognac perforated leather interior remains supple and in very good order
- Zebrano wood trim appears free from notable defects
- New tyres recently fitted, we are told
- Bodywork is described as dry, straight and honest, having benefited from the arid South African climate
The Mechanics
- 2.8-litre M110 straight-six petrol
- Four-speed manual transmission
- Solex carburettor recently rebuilt
- New Bilstein shock absorbers fitted to all four corners
- Clutch and brake hydraulic systems recently renewed
- Recently received a major service, we are told
- The vendor states the engine has been tuned to run "smooth as silk"
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