Basic information and history

The Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 from the 1970 model year marked the introduction of the brand's modern V8 into the S-Class saloon. The 3.5-liter engine provided a clear boost in torque and agility, and was combined with the high build quality typical of the time, sophisticated road handling and a drivetrain designed for long-lasting operation. Electronic fuel injection and carefully developed chassis technology gave the model a reputation for discreet performance and comfortable long-distance capability.

This example is Swedish-sold and according to the seller has an odometer reading of 65,000 km but the odometer has probably turned over. The car has had a total of 12 owners, including car dealers. Documentation is available for service and mechanical restoration carried out in 2021, while other documents cannot be provided. A technically interesting upgrade is a new final drive with a gear ratio of 3.46 instead of 3.69 for lower rpm and better fuel consumption when driving on the highway.

Equipment and options

• Sunroof
• Original Blaupunkt radio
• Michelin XWX white wall tires

Modifications and improvements: Rear axle and gearbox have been restored and fitted with a 3.46 final drive for reduced engine speed when driving on the road. The interior has been professionally restored with new leather upholstery front and rear, panel upholstered in matching leather, sanded and varnished wooden panels and moldings and new rubber moldings for the sunroof, tailgate and side windows. Ignition parts and switch clearances have been checked and the idle has been adjusted. The air conditioning system has a minor leak and was refilled no later than August 30, 2021.

Condition

Body and exterior: The paint is reported to be in very good condition with some remarks. There are small bubbles on the trunk lid and a small mark on the left front fender and another on the left door. Glass surfaces are in very good condition with no scratches or marks. Chrome, moldings, headlight lenses and emblems are described as being in good condition with no remarks. New weatherstrips have been fitted to the sunroof, tailgate and side windows.

Interior: The interior has been professionally restored with new leather upholstery front and rear, leather-covered dashboard and carefully sanded and varnished wooden panels and moldings. All interior chrome is shiny and well preserved. The headliner is original and flawless, steam-washed, but a small discoloration remains on the right C-pillar. The steering wheel, controls and buttons are in very good condition with very little wear for its age. The original Blaupunkt radio remains.

Tires and rims: Michelin XWX white wall tires with good tread depth according to the seller. Original rims with hubcaps in good condition.

Mechanics and function: The engine runs smoothly and nicely. Ignition parts and switch clearances have been checked and the idle has been adjusted. The brakes are considered good, with test reports referred to the photo album document . The gearbox and rear axle have been renovated and have received a new final drive 3.46 for lower rpm when driving on the road. The air conditioning system does not cool properly due to a minor leak, but works for a season after filling. The last filling was done on August 30, 2021.

Service history

Last service: September 23, 2021. In connection with this, the ignition parts and switch clearance have been checked and the idle adjusted. See documentation in the photo album documents . from service and mechanical restoration 2021 included according to the seller.

Inspection: Last approved June 12, 2018. The car is now inspection free.

Documentation: There are documents related to service and mechanical restoration in 2021. Brake tests and related information are referred to the photo album "documents".

Summary

Paul Bracq succeeded in making a 1960s Mercedes as beautiful as an Italian car. This 280 SE 3.5 Coupé from 1970 has a professionally updated interior, and is in very good overall external condition and a technically complete drivetrain. The modified final drive is a costly intervention but provides lower revs when driving on the road, which suits the model's long-distance focus. There are some documented paintwork marks and a minor leak in the climate system to consider. For the knowledgeable enthusiast, this example offers classic Mercedes engineering with well-chosen improvements and a clearly described condition.