Highlights

Factory right-hand drive example
First 31 years with a single registered keeper in the United Kingdom
Described by the vendor as complete and original

The Appeal

The Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5 Coupe is widely regarded as one of the most elegant grand tourers of its era. Pairing the graceful pillarless W111 coupe bodywork with the 3.5-litre ‘M116’ V8 and a four-speed automatic transmission, it represented the pinnacle of Stuttgart's output in the early 1970s. Factory right-hand drive examples are particularly scarce, and any that surface deserve serious attention.

This 1970 example spent its first 31 years with a single registered keeper in the United Kingdom before passing through two further keepers and being imported to Ireland in 2004. Finished in moss green over cognac leather, a handsome combination that suits the car's flowing lines, it is described by the vendor as complete and original.

This is unambiguously a restoration project: the upper bodywork is reported to be in generally good condition, but significant structural work is needed underneath, and a full mechanical inspection is recommended. For the buyer with the commitment to see it through, it offers the chance to bring a factory right-hand drive V8 coupe with long-term provenance back to the standard it deserves.

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Key Information

Mileage: 88,435 miles (unwarranted)
Country of registration: Republic of Ireland (registration lapsed in October 2008; originally registered in the United Kingdom)
Technical inspection status: Exempt
Technical specs: 3.5-litre V8, four-speed automatic
Paperwork: no specific documentation referenced by the vendor

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The Detail

The vendor describes the car non running
The vendor recommends a full mechanical inspection
Guards, doors, roof and rear quarters described by the vendor as generally in good condition
Inner sills, floor pan and reinforcement over the differential described as requiring replacement
Boot described as non-serviceable
Wheel wells, rear boot sills, front chassis rails and bonnet all require work
Cognac leather interior described by the vendor as being in original condition
Carpet will need replacing
Currently dry-stored in the Republic of Ireland
In current ownership for approximately two years
Two registered keepers between 2001 and 2004, following the original long-term keeper
Imported to Ireland and first registered there in July 2004
Irish registration lapsed in October 2008

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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.

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✓ 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. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.