The Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 epitomizes exclusivity in the classic car realm. Priced at $13,500 in 1970, it surpassed its sedan counterpart by $3,500 and even doubled the cost of a Cadillac Deville Coupé, making it a rare luxury choice.
Introduced in September 1969, the 280 SE Coupé/Cabriolet and 300 SEL saloon debuted Mercedes-Benz’s new 3.5-liter V8 engine. With features like Bosch electronic fuel injection and transistorized ignition, this cutting-edge engine delivered 200bhp, offering superior performance compared to many sports cars.
Equipped with automatic transmission, power windows, and a stereo radio as standard, the 280 SE 3.5 boasted impressive stats: reaching 200km/h and accelerating from 0 to 97km/h in 9.5 seconds.
As the final model with this revered body style, the 280 SE 3.5 represented the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz luxury, status, and reliability. Today, these sought-after classics are prized possessions among discerning collectors.
Photo Source: RM Sotheby’s
