"In the summer of 1965, Mercedes-Benz launched its new replacements for both W 111 and W 112 saloons, the W 108 and W 109 respectively. In a bizarre twist of fate, this car's design was based on the W 111 coupé but widened and squared off as the fintail fashion was quickly fading by the mid-1960s. However, both W 111 and W 112 models were modernised; the 220 SE was superseded by the 250 SE which featured the new 2,496cc engine, producing 150bhp at 5500rpm, giving it a significant improvement in top speed. Visibly, the changes only affected the new 14 rims with new wheel trims; this was to accommodate the larger disk brakes and the new rear axle. In November 1967, the 250 SE was superseded by the new 280 SE. Inside, the car received wood veneer on the dashboard and other minor changes. A final model was added in August 1969, the 280 SE, 3.5 litre. It was fitted with the brand-new M116, 3,499cc, V8 engine with 200bhp at 5,800rpm, a top speed of 130mph and a 0-100 at 9.5 seconds. To accommodate the large engine, the car's front grill was widened and front bumpers were modified. 
This fabulous and original right hand drive example is the much sort after V8 example and is presented in black paintwork with matching black leather trim. Our vendor purchased this at the turn of the year from the previous owner a Mr O’Donnell, who had owned the car since 1991 and in that time had expressly used one garage to care for his car – Steve Redfearn Motor Co. - Mercedes Benz specialists in Wimbledon. 
In what is a large history file there are over £125,000 of invoices relating to maintenance and work plus a £10,000 engine rebuild in 1996 at 41,000 miles. Of late our vendor has replaced and reupholstered the trim at a further cost of £5,750. This brings to us this incredibly desirable coupe as it stands today. The wood panels and fascia are in lovely condition throughout, as are all the new leather seats. This model is powered by the strong and hugely desirable 3.5 litre V8 engine which is wonderful on long journeys, coping effortlessly with motorway cruising, but is just as at home on the winding country roads. Truly a rare gem and sublime in its aesthetics. Viewings are highly recommended.
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