West Palm Beach, FL | USA
$24,950
/ USDDescription
A 1971 Mercedes Benz 280SE 3.5 W108 Euro Model. 90,000 original km. This is one of 11,309 examples produced. A very desirable beige, grey metallic with a brown cloth interior. A very rare and desirable 4 speed manual gearbox. M116980 engine. The car was imported from Italy by a navy officer who was stationed out there. It comes with all books, records and import papers. This car spent most of its time in California. A very straight and honest body. The paint job is old and imperfect as you can s...
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Our Take:
- European Heritage: The 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5 W108 is truly a piece of automotive history, especially as a Euro model. This one boasts the M116980 engine, which was known for its smooth V8 performance—a real treat for any classic car aficionado. With only 11,309 made, it's not every day you stumble upon one, especially with a 4-speed manual transmission.
- Rare Manual Transmission: The manual gearbox in this 280SE is a rarity, setting it apart from most others of its kind that typically came with automatic transmissions. Driving this beauty offers an immersive experience—shifting gears by hand gives you a deeper connection to the road and the car's engineering. It's like stepping back into a time when driving was as much about skill as it was about getting from point A to B.
- A Decorated Past: Imported by a navy officer from Italy, this car carries snippets of two rich motoring cultures. Its history is well-documented through all the books, records, and import papers—an important aspect for collectors who value provenance. With its long Californian residency, it's not surprising to find a rust-free undercarriage; they don't call it "Sunny California" for nothing!
- Barn Find Story: After spending two decades tucked away in a barn, this classic has just been awakened from its slumber. While it requires a bit of mechanical love (the clutch needs attention), these elements add to its charm and intrigue. Cars with a "barn find" story often have a certain mystique that collectors find irresistible. After all, who doesn't love a good comeback tale?
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