In September 1969, Mercedes-Benz introduced the most powerful model in the W111 “Fintail” range, the 280 SE 3.5. Not to be confused with the lowlier 280 SE which came with a 2.8-litre six-cylinder engine, the 280 SE 3.5, as the name suggests, was powered by a newly-developed 3.5-litre V8 engine that churned out a respectable 200 PS.
Despite having to carry a large, hefty body, the M116 engine proved it had enough vim and vigour with an impressive century sprint time of less than 10 seconds and a top speed of 205 km/h. It was perhaps the second fastest road-legal Mercedes at that time after the famed 300 SEL 6.3.
But it wasn’t long before the luxury sedan went out of production. In July 1971, two months after Mercedes-Benz stopped making the 2.8-litre versions, the 280 SE 3.5 followed suit, leaving a total of 4,502 units in existence. 3,270 of them were Coupes while the rest (1,272) were Cabriolets, making the latter even rarer than a 300SL roadster.
Well, if you have a hankering to put one in your garage, look no further than this prime example offered by Mercedes-Benz Classic’s very own All Time Stars program. Listed at a whopping 499,890 Euros (RM2.46 million), this particular unit is a left-hand driver version built in 1971 and comes in stunning Moss Green metallic with full leather interior in Cognac to match. The car may be approaching its 50th anniversary but it still looks pristine.
The V8 engine is paired with a four-speed automatic transmission which channels the power to the rear wheels. It also boasts power steering and disc brakes on all four wheels, which will definitely come in handy when you need to slow down on a slippery surface. That said, ABS and airbags are absent. At least there is air-conditioning to beat the heat and keep you cool in the hot and humid Malaysian weather.
Better yet, the car still has a lot to give with just 41,400 km on its clock. My best guess is that the previous two owners were not big on long distance driving, which is unfortunate because that is exactly what it was built for.
To help provide peace of mind to the next owner, the 280 SE 3.5 comes with a 12-month warranty from All Time Stars and together with the car is the complete on-board folder with service record and owner’s manual and a complete tool kit. It has also received a comprehensive service and safety inspection as well as an exhaust emissions test to make sure everything is in order.
