Highlights

Only two previous registered owners
Presented as an unmodified example
Recent exterior paint
Recent major mechanical refurbishment, including cooling, braking and injection systems
Numbers matching according to the seller

The Appeal

The W116-generation Mercedes-Benz 280 SE is an iconic car, the model that inaugurated the S-Class name and defined the luxury saloon silhouette as we know it. Powered by a 2.8-litre inline-six engine and paired with a four-speed automatic, the 280 SE offered refined and assured driving, in a package built to last. These cars have seen values rise among enthusiasts who prioritise technical substance over flash, and good examples are becoming harder to find.

This 1977 example has had only two registered owners and has undergone no modifications. It benefits from recent exterior paint on a silver bodywork that pairs beautifully with the blue interior. Major mechanical work has been carried out recently, notably on the cooling system, braking, injection and the automatic transmission. The seller states that the car is mechanically capable of covering any distance. Thanks to meticulous and recent maintenance and a valid French technical inspection, this 280 SE deserves serious consideration.

Key Information

Mileage: 190,000 km (stated, not guaranteed; the seller notes that the odometer can stick)
Registration country: France (Normal registration certificate)
Technical inspection status: MOT valid until February 2028
Technical specs: 2.8-litre inline-six petrol engine, four-speed automatic
Attached documents: recent invoices kept for cooling system service, braking system service, engine oil change and fuel tank purge; earlier works carried out without invoices; earlier maintenance history described as poorly documented.

The Details

Radiator replaced
Cooling system bled and thermostat replaced
Rear braking system with linkage revised
Oil and oil filter changed
Injection system revised
Fuel tank sealed
Compression check performed
Automatic transmission checked and overhauled
Ignition system checked
Tyres replaced
Recent exterior paint; the seller describes the paint as being in remarkable condition
The bodyshell is in very good condition
Light corrosion under the paint on the left rear wing
Minor scuff on the right-front bumper
The seller indicates the underbody is in very good condition with solid jack points
Light superficial corrosion on the rear right subframe
Driver's seat cushion has a small tear; the seller notes that the passenger and rear seats are near-new
Cracked dashboard
The interior wood trim is described as remarkable
The seller states the headlining is in perfect condition
Vintage-look car radio with Bluetooth installed but not yet connected
Air conditioning system requires serviced
Numbers matching according to the seller
Stored in a dry, secure garage

BEFORE BUYING

This sale is subject to Car & Classic's terms and conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller, meaning that consumer rights arising from European consumer protection legislation do not apply. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic's terms and conditions.

✓ We require non-refundable fees to be paid if you are the winning bidder or your offer is accepted. Please refer to our FAQs and terms for specific tariffs.

✓ This vehicle is "sold as seen", on an "as is, where is" basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are for guidance only and it is customary to conduct a full vehicle inspection prior to purchase for your peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as stated in the advert.

✓ We aim to ensure the transaction runs smoothly, just as you do, and that is why UK-registered cars and motorcycles listed on Car & Classic are subject to an HPI check to verify that they do not show any insurance database markers for damage or theft, and that they are not subject to a financial lien, which allows you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are registered as written off in the event of a total loss at the time the listing goes live on Car & Classic and we provide theft category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) to assist you. The presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle status, and it is always wise to perform a full vehicle history check before bidding on it.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery. Importing vehicles may incur customs duties and import taxes. If you prefer, we can recommend a third-party transport company to assist. For more details and to speak to the team, email auctions@carandclassic.com.