Registration number: MB-19-12

One of the final models from Stuttgart’s golden era, when Mercedes-Benz seamlessly combined top-tier craftsmanship with timeless design. This 1971 280 SE 3.5 Coupé is a textbook example of how restoration should be done: executed down to the finest detail, exactly as per factory specifications, and presented in true concours condition.

This Mercedes-Benz left the factory in the rare and elegant shade of Dark Olive Green, paired with an exquisitely refined cognac leather interior. The fact that the engine, color, and specification are all matching numbers makes this car exceptionally special. Only 3,270 units of the 280 SE 3.5 Coupé were ever built, and this example undoubtedly ranks among the very best available today.

And that’s no exaggeration. The restoration of this car has been carried out with an extraordinary level of care and precision. Not only were the correct materials and finishes used, but desirable features such as the original sunroof, the highly sought-after Becker Europa radio, the floor-shift automatic transmission, and the proper leather upholstery have all been preserved in superb condition. This 280 SE has not been over-restored, but rather brought back to life exactly as it would have left the showroom in 1971. Every detail reflects quality and authenticity.

Under the hood lies the 3.5-liter V8, a technical masterpiece of its time. With generous power, Bosch electronic fuel injection, and a single overhead camshaft per cylinder bank, this engine represented state-of-the-art engineering. While its performance still holds up today, what truly impresses is how this car drives: smooth, quiet, effortless, and with a level of refinement that remains rare. The chassis delivers comfort without sacrificing control, confidently managing the V8’s weight. The driving experience is sophisticated, the controls feel reassuringly solid, and noise levels stay remarkably low even at speed.

The body design of the W111 Coupé dates back to the late 1950s and is widely regarded as one of Mercedes-Benz’s most beautiful creations. Long, flowing lines, a subtle waistline, tasteful chrome accents, and a clean, readable dashboard combine to create a uniquely stylish and comfortable package. The 280 SE 3.5 marked the final evolution of this iconic body style and today stands as the ultimate collector’s piece for connoisseurs. It’s no coincidence that Car & Driver once referred to it as “a symphony of engineering and elegance.”

This Mercedes 280 SE comes with a fully documented history. In short, this is a rare opportunity to acquire one of the finest examples of a legendary model. A car for those who accept nothing but the best. A Mercedes-Benz for the purist, the collector, and the true enthusiast of German perfection from a golden age.

Get in touch with us today for more information. Since 1975, Gallery Aaldering has been a family-run business with a passion for the most beautiful and exceptional automobiles in the world. We ship globally — ask us about the possibilities.