Fantasy Junction

Description

1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet s/n W111.027-12-003453 Gold with Dark Brown Interior The absolute top of the line model in its day, the 280SE 3.5 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 V8 power plants, independent suspension all around, power steering, power disc brakes, and many convenience features. Safety was also a concern, with crumple zones, padded steering wheel and dashboard components, and three-point safety belts. 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 astronomically expensive. Consequently, few were sold, and they have always been rare. This particular car is a two-owner car that has always been in the San Francisco Bay Area of California. It has Behr Air Conditioning, power windows, and 300-style chrome wheel arch trims. The car was sold new in December of 1970 in San Jose, and its current owner, a long time Mercedes collector, purchased the car from its original owner`s estate in 2005. He has performed much cosmetic and mechanical work including repainting the exterior, selectively rechroming exterior trim, refinishing the interior wood, selectively reupholstering the interior and top boot cover, new Bilstein shocks and brakes, and rebuilt front suspension. The car has also had an engine out service and comprehensive engine compartment detail to very high standards by Bernd Fiebig. Cosmetically, the car is very nice. The car has never been hit, and the body is free of corrosion. The panels are straight and fit well, while the paint is high quality and free of significant blemishes and preparation issues. Some of the chrome is very nice (such as on the bumpers) while other areas (like the window surrounds) show some pitting. The lights and glass are very good, though the bottom corners of the windscreen are showing some delamination. The interior is also extremely nice and is a reminder of the quality and appeal of this car. The action of the glove box door, for example, or any of the numerous switches is wonderfully smooth and solid. Nearly everything is made of natural materials that have been thoughtfully designed, finished, and assembled. The front seats, center armrests, and leather console pad have been reupholstered and the remainder of the upholstery (rear seats and doors trims) is original and well-preserved. The wood is excellent, though the color of the windscreen surround does not quite match the rest of the wood. The instruments and switches are well-preserved and excellent, and even the clock keeps proper time. The carpets are in good condition but show some fading, and a Nardi wood-rimmed steering wheel has been fitted. The trunk is unrestored though presentable, and the all important trunk floor is free of corrosion. The engine compartment is spectacularly detailed and has the appearance of a car that has been freshly restored. It is spotless throughout and quite proper. Almost all components have been refinished, employing the correct finishes throughout, including the cadmium plating in many places. The underside is original and presently rust free, with excellent original floors and rockers. Some panel replacement has been performed under the left rear seat. This is a fine opportunity to acquire a sympathetically cared for and unmolested 3.5 Convertible. It has the perfect blend of restored components and originality, making it an ideal car to use and enjoy, while the irreproachable California ownership history adds further appeal and peace of mind.

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

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