Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 convertible, 1971

Return to the archives  -  Photo overview Mercedes history
Technical data
 
Video  -  Information

The Mercedes-Benz W108/W109 'Flachkuhler' series was introduced in the year 1965. The model series succeeded the in 1959 presented W111/W112 'Heckflossen' series. Only little details of the coupe and convertible models were changed. The later cars could only be identified by the badges on the rear, therefore these cars continued as W111/W112 series. The series was a re-design of the former series. The four door sedan models changed significantly and were updated to match the slick coupe design.. Just like the former series the new W108/W109 series presented the best Mercedes-Benz had to offer. The automobiles were leading concerning quality and luxury. The cars only had to accept the ultra luxurious and ultra exclusive Mercedes-Benz 600 above them. 
When first introduced only six cylinder models were available. the (W108) 250 S and 250 SE and the (W109) 300 SE. These models were succeeded by the (W108) 280 S, 280 SE en de 300 SEL (with air-suspension), the W109 model was discontinued.
Primarily to please the American market a 3.5 Litre V8 engine was presented for the W108 in the year 1970 and a year later a 4.5 Litre version was launched. The six cylinder models were available with a manual or automatic four-speed gearbox, a five speed manual gearbox was optional. For the 3.5 V8 a four speed automatic gearbox was standard and a four speed manual gearbox was available on request. The later 4.5 Litre V8 was only sold with a three speed automatic gearbox. The W108/W109 series featured servo assisted disc brakes all round and almost all cars were sold with power steering.
The 280 SE coupé and convertible models were very expensive cars those days but they sold very well amongst the rich. These Mercedes-Benz models are beautiful cars just like the W111/W112 coupe and convertible models. A fantastic stretched and slick design, very luxurious, comfortable, reliable and very well built.

Technical data

90° V8 engine
2 single overhead camshafts
cylinder capacity: 3499 cc.
electronic Bosch fuel injection
capacity: 200 bhp. at 5800 rpm.
torque: 286 Nm at 4000 rpm.
top-speed: 210 km/h.
gearbox: 4-speed, automatic
brakes: servo assisted disc brakes all round
weight: 1648 kg.

Information

Mercedes-Benz 280 SE (W111) 3.5 V8 convertible, year 1971. Colour black with a cognac leather interior and a black mohair convertible top. This fantastic and beautiful Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 convertible is one of the most sought after post was Mercedes-Benz classics. This 280 SE 3.5 sports a smooth 4-speed automatic gearbox and the original alloy wheels. The automobile is powered by a powerful and extremely smooth 3.5 Litre V8 engine, one of the most delightful engines Mercedes-Benz ever built. This convertible gives space to four to five persons to enjoy a top class open top driving experience.


© 2009, V3D/ ClassicarImages. All rights reserved.