The Mercedes-Benz 280 SE Convertible
In August 1961, a convertible version of the 220 SEb was presented, which was an exact replica of the coupé-variant except for the absent roof and required body stiffening. This elegant and representative model became the successor of the 128 series convertible, which after October 1960 was no longer produced. From a technical and stylistic point of view, the new model was derived from the 220 SEb saloon, which was presented in August 1959, and was also assigned to model series 111. In contrast to their predecessors, the coupé and convertible variants were planned as fully-fledged four-seated models. They were based on the chassis of the saloon; the wheelbase of which remained unchanged. Although the tailfins, which had made such a sensation at the presentation of the 220 b - 220 SEb models, were now apparent in rudimentary form only, convertibles and saloons still had many stylistic features in common. This makes the fact that not a single construction element of the four-door model could be used for the convertible even more surprising.
Over the years, new models with succesively bigger engines were introduced, the top of the line until 1968 being the luxurious 300 SE, that even got its own model code 112 to separate it from its lowlier siblings. The bodies of the corresponding 220 SEb versions had been touched up with additional decorative elements and were combined with the technology of the Type 300 SE. Thus, these new exclusive models, featured a whole set of technical details. Basic equipment consisted of a 3.0-liter light-alloy engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, powerbrake unit, air suspension and dual circuit brakes with disk brakes at the front and rear wheels. There was additional chrome decoration in the shape of a chrome trim extending from headlights to taillights along the longitudinal bead as well as conspicuous decorative trims at the front and rear wheel arches.
January 1968 witnessed the debut of the 280 SE model, which had a newly developed 2.8-liter engine with 160 hp and became the successor of the 250 SE. This change of generation did not only affect the saloon, but also the two-door versions. Apart from the new engine, only some details had been changed in the coupé and the convertible; like the saloon, both received flatter one-piece decorative wheel covers with integrated boss cap. At the same time as the 2.5-liter models, production of the Type 300 SE coupé and convertible was stopped. There was no immidiate successor, but this was not really necessary either, as engine power was only 10 hp lower than in the 2.8-liter versions and the same driving performance was achieved because of their lower weight.
In September 1969 the more powerful 280 SE 3.5 coupé and convertible models were presented. The completely new 3.5-liter V8-engine with 200 hp was very quiet and smooth and made sports car performance possible. The 280 SE remained in the program and in the final years of W111 convertible production, these were the two engine options.
A total of 2,918 coupés and 7,013 convertibles of this range were built in Sindelfingen. The most exclusive version was the 300 SE convertible with 708 units produced, followed by the 250 SE convertible (954 units), the 280 SE 3.5 convertible (1,232 units) and the 280 SE convertible (1,390 units). The 220 SEb coupé achieved the highest production volume with 14,173 units. No replacement was planned for the convertibles; fresh air Mercedes drivers had to be content with the two-seater SL.
This Mercedes-Benz 280 SE Convertible
The data plate in the engine compartment identifies this example to be:
426: Power steering and automatic transmission with floor shift
491: US version
503: Outside rear view mirror left
542: Paint code for Dark Red (made by Glasurit)
Further, the original Mercedes Data Card gives additional detailed information:
Dated 3rd October, 1968 (model year 1969)
Interior upholstery code 249: Bamboo with brown carpets
Black soft top code 740
Engine matching numbers
What is known about the car's history, is that it was registered with one Florida owner from 1992 to 2014. At that pont it was bought by a Dutch classic car specialist and imported to Europe. Shortly thereafter,said specialist sold the vehicle to a German Mercedes dealer. A comprehensive restoration ensued, including bodywork, paint, mechanics, electrics and interior. Documentation from 2017 show the restored car passing the stringent inspection in Germany to be registered as a historic vehicle.
Since completing restoration the car has seen little use with a mileage of just around 1,000 km. We recently did a full inspection and test drive of the car. Having restored classic Mercedes ourselves, we can attest to the quality of the restoration. It is done to a high standard. As with many vehicles lacking use, there are some matters to attend to. Thus, before delivery the following will be done:
Thereafter, a new prospective owner will be able to enjoy the pinnacle of sophistication and engineering excellence, that went into the W111 series coupés and convertibles. There really was not anything else this side of the Rolls-Royce Corniche, and having sold a fantastic example of the latter, we would argue, that the 280 SE is the better car in almost all respects and is truly one of the finest autmobile sof its era.
Please contact us for further details. Inspection and test drive on appointment. Car is located in Central Europe.
