A highly original looking 2.8L example of the much-loved W114
Just benefitted from a full, professional mechanical restoration
Undertaken by marque specialists at a cost of over £13,000
The Appeal
The W114 range appeared in 1968 with roomy and luxurious styling courtesy of the renowned Paul Bracq. The new model featured an all-new suspension set up which would go on to underpin Mercedes Benz cars right into the 1980’s. A W114 taxi went on to become the most travelled ever Mercedes clocking up an astounding 2.9 million miles.
This 1974 example benefits from the improvements ushered in via a 1971 model facelift. These include a better resolved front end with lower “fishbowl” headlamps and the first appearance of the ribbed rear light lenses, designed to better stay clean and visible. The W114 of 1974 was the epitome of sophisticated German luxury, especially in this range-topping 2.8L, six-cylinder guise. eCiezL50duKUF4Nxgwsf7T2cLyI8PJaUuQLnhySn.jpg726.68 KB
The History & Paperwork
A German, home-marked supplied and specified example
Registered in 1974, towards the end of W114 production
One of over 1.8M saloon W114’s built between 1968 and 1976
Understood to have remained in Germany until earlier in 2023
Little more is known of this car’s early life
In December 2023 the current owner commissioned a full mechanical restoration
This was undertaken by HSC Mercedes Specialists of Hampshire
This encompassed a full engine strip and rebuilt
The transmission and running gear were also fully overhauled
This work amounted to over £13,000 of expenditure
A full, detailed, three-page invoice is included outlining the work undertaken
The 280E presents in its factory Pine Green Metallic paintwork (862)
This is thought to be its original hue and certainly matches its data plate
Complete with the famous “fishbowl” lights and “Mexican hat” alloys
The Pine Green paintwork appears to suit the sophistication of the 280E very well. There appears to be a good metallic flake content remaining and all brightwork seems to be bright and lustrous. It is noted that a factory steel sunroof is part of the original specification.
Key W114 features are all here – the iconic deep lights, stately looking grill and Mexican hat alloy wheels. The condition of all appears to be very good and belying the vintage of the Mercedes. Underscoring this car’s 1970’s luxury credentials, an integrated headlamp wipe system is also featured.
The interior is a heady blend of deep, textured velour and complementary carpets
The level of originality is equalled only by the fine apparent condition
Complete with period St Christoper emblem and Blaupunkt Mexico radio cassette
The 280’s upholstery is courtesy of deep and cosseting ribbed velour in a beige hue. The condition of all seat coverings appear to be excellent with just a minor hole noted and photographed. Beige Berber style carpets complement this period look and are mostly well presented other than a little deterioration in the driver’s footwell.
The dashboard, steering wheel and instrumentation all appear present and correct, right down to the Becker Mexico radio cassette. Perforated vinyl door cards and headlining complete the originality and period ambiance. 4cNEshwmTwqjIoQW70MDC4nGUtlh3BhLdGYEpcsj.jpg802.55 KB
The Mechanics
This example is fitted with the range topping M110 2.8L six-cylinder engine
This is paired to a four speed 772 automatic gearbox
Subject to a £13,000 plus mechanical restoration in December 2023
This W114 is blessed with the range-topping mechanical specification offered with the W114. The M1110 straight-six engine was noted for its smooth and refined delivery and more than enough power for high-speed autobahn use. This was paired with a four-speed automatic transmission for the ultimate in fuss-free and luxurious progress.
This example stands apart thanks to a recent and full mechanical restoration. This was performed by marque specialists HSC at a cost of over £13,000. This work involved removing the engine, transmission, and rear differential. The engine was then treated to a full strip down and rebuilt including the fitment of many new parts. These included pistons, camshafts, bearings and gaskets to name a few. The timing chain and accompanying tensioners were replaced. The differential was stripped, and the bearings replaced, and the transmission was fully overhauled.
The result is a rarely seen 2.8L W114 in a topflight mechanical condition, ready to use and enjoy to the full. Despite this the engine bay retains remarkable originality with only the under-bonnet insulation noted as missing. The expected data plates are present. What can be seen of the underside appears equally well presented.
Summary
It has become increasingly rare to see a W114 on the UK’s highways and byways and, so, it is always a treat. This example majors on its originality with it offering the new owner a real “time-machine” experience. That combined with its very diligent and valuable mechanical restoration make this a very desirable example of a high revered Mercedes Benz.
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