1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5 Coupe
A luxurious German grand tourer that captivated automotive enthusiasts was the 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5 Coupe. This distinguished model marked a significant advancement in Mercedes-Benz’s high-end offerings, combining power with comfort in a limited-production package.
The exterior presented classic Mercedes styling with its vertical headlights, chrome trim, and pillarless coupe design. The car’s graceful lines flowed from front to back, incorporating subtle fins at the rear quarters – a styling element that paid homage to earlier Mercedes models.
The handcrafted body construction demonstrated Mercedes’ dedication to quality, with precise panel gaps and superior fit and finish.
Under the hood, Mercedes engineers installed a sophisticated 3.5-liter V8 engine. This powerplant used Bosch electronic fuel injection and produced 230 horsepower, making it quite powerful for its time.
The engine featured a cast-iron block chosen specifically for its rigidity and sound-dampening qualities. The V8 connected to a four-speed automatic transmission, which provided quick acceleration while maintaining refined operation.
The suspension system showed Mercedes’ engineering prowess, utilizing independent setups at both ends. The front employed unequal-length control arms with an anti-sway bar, while the rear featured a low-pivot swing axle arrangement with trailing arms.
This configuration delivered both handling precision and passenger comfort. Four-wheel power disc brakes provided confident stopping ability.
Inside, craftsmen trimmed the cabin with premium materials including leather upholstery and genuine wood accents across the dashboard and door panels. The interior offered generous space for four adults, with well-bolstered seats designed for long-distance comfort.
Standard amenities included power windows, heating and air conditioning systems, and a Becker radio with power antenna.
Production numbers remained deliberately low, with just 3,270 coupes manufactured during its two-year run from 1969 to 1971. This limited availability helped maintain the model’s exclusivity. Main competitors included the BMW 3.0 CS and Jaguar XJ6C, though the Mercedes typically commanded higher prices and offered superior build quality.
The 280SE 3.5 Coupe incorporated several technical innovations. The overhead camshaft design used a chain drive system for durability, while the transistorized ignition improved reliability.
The British magazine AutoCar praised the engine’s refinement and output, highlighting its advanced engineering for the period. The floor-mounted automatic shifter added a sporting touch that appealed to American buyers who wanted both luxury and engagement in their driving experience.
Credit: RM Sotheby’s
