1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SE 4.5L

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The 1960’s and early 70’s were a time where the Mercedes-Benz translated a message much different than what they are known for today. There was no exotic McLaren SLR or tire smoking AMG brutes that we so common affiliate with Mercedes but there was something much more simple. It was a time where the three-point badge represented a brand that was highly focused on building cars that were authentic to what Mercedes valued in an automobile. They remained absent from any influence by external demands, attles for the highest top speed, r really any adversity of substance. Without these factors dictating the direction of Mercedes Benz, hey placed a priority on the build quality and engineering surrounding their cars with the aesthetics at the end of the to do list if you will. The 280SE would be considered the period equivalent to an S-Class in present day. In 1971, he 280SE received a new 4.5L V8 power plant that produced a snappy 200bhp and replaced the previous straight-six. This sporty sedan is also quite comparable to modern day standards for the engineering that went into these cars make them an absolute joy to drive. All the way down to the switches and levers, he 280SE feels well-built, ubstantial, nd made for a reliable daily driver.

The example on offer is Chassis number 10806712006930 finished in an ivory with a contrasting red interior. About 12-15 years ago, he car received a nut and bolt restoration whereby both cosmetics and mechanical aspects were restored thoroughly. The restoration itself was executed in Poland, or the current owner is native to the area, nd then brought to the states where it has been looked after and enjoyed. Unfortunately, his car’s early history is not known aside from the information provided by the original data card.

Exterior color code: 670 – ivory

Interior color code: 140 – cognac mbtex

Option codes;

401 single seats

410 sliding roof

420 power steering / floor-shift

466 instruments in English / central locking

491 USA version

515 Becker radio

524 paint-coat preservation

540 seat adapter between front seats

589 air conditioner / electric windows

595 heat insulated glass

641 white wall tires

669 mode of packing VE I

246 heated rear pane

The current condition of this example resembles as a good driver quality example, nd a nicely aged restoration. There is clear evidence of the past restoration for the paint shows well with very little to make note of in terms of flaws. The chrome items are beginning to show their age with some minor flawing and mild pitting in certain areas but they simply need to be sent out to be refinished. All remaining embellishment items on the car are in very presentable condition for a driver quality car. All the panel gaps and fitment are within proper clearances and pose no issue. The door fitment, hut lines, nd operation is as expected. The jams are clean and neat with the original VIN plate still present along the driver side B-post. Enter the cabin of this 280SE and you are presented with a fresh red interior, hich is not the correct color for this car per factory record but certainly is a tasteful alteration. The wooden dash face houses the restored components and gauges that all are completely operational. A couple items to note are that the deck of the dash has deteriorated at the right corner where it meets the windshield. In addition, he red vinyl is beginning to peal at a couple localized areas however; both of these items can be attributed to an older restoration, nd are ultimately consistent with a driver quality example.

Step out of the car and open up the front bonnet will reveal the hardy 4.5L fuel injected V8 engine that gives these cars their sporty charisma on the road. Everything is neat and correct but could use a good detail to bring up the painted and finishes surfaces. Close the bonnet and open up the boot lid and it has been nicely finished, ith the original spare, ll showing very well. The underside shows much of the same qualities, nce again with evidence of an older restoration but has held up quite well. Compared to most, t is very clean, traight, nd presents well.

Speaking on the drivability of this example, t runs as though it was built in the 21st century, hich is always the impressive part of these 4-doors Mercedes from this era. A turn of the key will almost immediately fire the engine and it quickly idles down, o comfortable RPM, testament to the dedication behind the engineering of a Mercedes Benz. This example has the automatic 3-speed transmission which was the standard in period and it preforms beautifully. The transitions from gear to gear are firm and timely. The braking and steering systems are both in order and work well. These cars are easy to get up to speed and provide a basis for a great sports Sedan of the period. According to the gauges the car holds an ideal temperature, roduces good oil pressure, nd does not show any symptoms that indicate the need for mechanical attention. It is an absolutely fabulous car to drive and with proper seating in the back, car that not only the enthusiast can appreciate but the family as well.

In summation, he example on offer is a splendid driver quality piece that the enthusiast can put on the road and put a few miles on. The older restoration addressed any significant issues that these cars may have once had mechanically or cosmetically making this a sound driver all around. This 1971 280SE is a great opportunity to own a part of Mercedes-Benz history that came from a period where they built some of their most admired cars to date. The applicability for road use, he historical significance, nd build quality are some of the items most appreciated about these cars and make it desired by the enthusiast.