Fantasy Junction

Description

1969 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE Cabriolet
s/n 11102512001562
Black with Black Leather

One of the flagship models in its day, along with the thirstier eight cylinder counterpart, the 280SE Convertible remains a sought-after and collectible car today. They are the last of the classic, almost Baroque Mercedes 2-doors, and the last of the full-sized convertibles, presenting an elegant and comfortable way to enjoy open-air motoring with four of your full-sized friends or family members. From a technological standpoint, the cars represented Mercedes’ typical engineering prowess, with fuel-injected overhead cam power plants, independent suspension all around, power steering, power disc brakes, and many convenience features. Safety was also a concern, with crumple zones, and padded steering wheel and dashboard components. The truly extraordinary qualities of this car lie in its attention to detail and craftsmanship. Very few objects of any kind, cars or otherwise, are quite so robustly built, and this is particularly striking when compared with today’s cars. These cars were the last ones to be built largely by hand, and when new, they were very expensive. Consequently, few were sold, and they have always been rare.

This example has seen much restorative work and is in very nice cosmetic condition. It has been recently (July 2009) serviced at a cost of $2,780.83, including oil service, transmission service including filter, AC system repairs (including R134a conversion and expansion valve), driveshaft pinion seal, and steering box coupling bushing. The paintwork was completed to good standards and the panels are straight and appear free of corrosion. The panel fit is very good overall. The chrome has been selectively renewed, including the door top trims, bumpers, and tail light and headlamp trims. There is some pitting present in some areas including the windscreen surround, quarter windows trims, and on the front bumper. The glass and lamps are excellent on the whole, with light pitting only on the front windscreen. The top is superb, being having been recently redone, and fits extremely nicely. It is of the correct German canvas, and has a wool headliner.

The interior is in superb condition, having been recently and correctly restored to high standards. The front and rear seats were beautifully redone in leather, employing the correct pleating and perforation patterns. The wood was also renewed and is in superb shape, including around the windscreen. The switches and instruments are in nice shape, and and car is fitted with a period Blaupunkt radio. The carpets were also redone and are in fine shape.

The engine compartment is tidy and very clean throughout. The trunk has a new correct rubber mat, and the floor is solid and rust-free, including the spare tire wells. An inspection of the underside reveals that the car has had repairs performed in past, but the car appears to be solid and rust-free at this time.

This is a fine opportunity to acquire an attractive example of this beautifully engineered convertible. Few opportunities exist in the world of old cars to enjoy open air motoring for four full-sized adults, which is doubtless one of the many reasons that these elegant and timeless cars have been and remain sought after cars.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608