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Extremely Rare And Collectible EURO 4-Speed Version Of the 280SE 3.5 V8 2-Door Hardtop Coupe. Less than 50,000 Documented Miles and Totally Rust Free; Finished In DB904 Midnight Blue With Cognac Leather Trim. Unrestored And, Meticulously Maintained Throughout Its Life; Driven Sparingly Since Import To The USA. Service Records Show The Extensive Mechanical Work Done, As Needed, In Recent Years. Must Be Seen And Driven To Be Fully Appreciated. VIN 111.026.10.000105.
The Mercedes-Benz W111 280SE with the M116 3.5 liter V8 was produced for only two model years - from August 1969 (1970 model) through July 1971 (1971 model). A total of 4,502 Coupes and Convertibles were built during that short time period. Very few, reportedly less than 300, were equipped with a 4-speed manual transmission and, none of those were exported to the US. This example was a very early production car (#105) and, was delivered new in Milan, Italy. The car remained with the original owner until it was exported to the US in 1986 with approximately 50,000 Km showing on the odometer. Since 1986, the car has accumulated less than 30,000 additional kilometers (18,000 miles) or, about 1,000 miles, on average, per year.
According to the Mercedes factory Data Card, this car was originally delivered in DB836, Moss Green. The color was expertly changed early in its life to the present color, DB904, Midnight Blue, also available in 1970. Without this Data Card and Data Plate, it would be almost impossible to tell this car underwent a color change. The paint is of factory quality and has held up extremely well.
The only modification done when imported to the US was, the addition of lighted side-markers on the front fenders. All other lights and trim are as delivered in Italy. This car also was delivered new without air conditioning or power windows. The first owner added power front windows which continue to work very well.
Service records show the following work has been performed in the last 10,000 km: New fuel pump and fuel tank; driveshaft flex-disc coupling; brake pads and rotors; brake master cylinder; major tune-up and service; front suspension overhaul including Bilstein shocks, king pins, tie rods and, control arm bushings. All fluids have been changed in 2014 and a new rear suspension compensator has been installed.
This rust-free car retains much of its originality including all original glass with the MB antifreeze sticker on the windshield and the Italian dealer sticker on the rear window. It has a complete original interior with only the wood trim having been refinished by Madera Concepts in CA. Even the clock works. The original steering wheel is crack free. The only other modification is the addition of a AM-FM radio and speakers, both which could be easily removed if total originality was desired. It also has the original owner's manual pouch, the service book, warranty book, European dealer directory and, an English owner's manual. Also included are various Italian documents, early service history, a US DOT import document and, extensive US service records.
This 280SE 3.5 Coupe runs and drives just as a well-maintained low mileage Mercedes should. With the rare 4-Speed transmission and the V8 motor, it is very collectible. Interested parties should arrange to see and drive the car to fully appreciate its quality.
SOLD
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