Introduced in 1972, the W116 series was a major step forward for Mercedes-Benz, combining the marque’s traditional emphasis on build quality with new levels of refinement, safety, and technical sophistication. The first Mercedes-Benz model range officially designated the S-Class, it formalized a lineage that remains a benchmark for German luxury sedans more than half a century later. The 280 S was powered by Mercedes-Benz’s 2.8-liter M110 twin-cam straight-six, while fully independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes contributed to the W116’s renowned long-distance composure.
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Ordered new in Germany, this 1978 example was finished in Classic White (737G) and specially optioned with a Moss (006) green interior. Clearly purchased by a passionate enthusiast, the car was specified for factory collection and equipped with a Becker Europa radio and 4-speed manual gearbox. The car’s original order forms accompany the sale, as do its original manuals and later documentation. Today, the 280 S presents beautifully, showing under 66,000 km (41,000 miles) when catalogued, while its green checked-cloth seat inserts, armrest and door cards make for an exceptionally stylish and luxurious cabin.
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With its slim European bumpers, color-matched hubcaps, distinctive interior, and manual gearbox, this unusually well-documented 280 S offers a particularly appealing expression of the early S-Class.
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