This superb Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet is one of just 1,232 examples produced by the Sindelfingen factory in Germany.

Luxuriously equipped with factory air-conditioning, this 3.5 has been upgraded with the desirable floor-mounted shifter. This Cabriolet is dressed in its original factory color of Tobacco Brown (DB 423) with Cognac upholstery – the same color combination as the 280 SE 3.5 that was featured in the Mercedes-Benz marketing brochure. According to the consignor, an early owner was Jeff Barry, writer of hit pop songs such as “Chapel of Love” and “Leader of the Pack.” In 1993, the 280 SE was acquired by Scott Melnick of Automotive Engineering of Calabasas, California, a renowned Mercedes-Benz specialist.

Melnick commenced a show-quality restoration addressing both the cosmetic and mechanical aspects of the car. The newly restored Cabriolet was later sold to a Beverly Hills lawyer, who enjoyed the car until 2013 when he entrusted Automotive Engineering with the sale of the vehicle. It was then acquired by the consignor – a discerning Mercedes-Benz collector who had been doggedly searching for a high-quality 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet in Southern California. This example has remained in his collection since 2013 and been driven about 100 miles a year to keep it in good running condition.

Continually maintained and recently serviced, this 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet is in exceptional condition and is worthy of consideration by an uncompromising buyer.