Beschreibung:

In the summer of 1965, Mercedes-Benz launched its new replacements for both W111 and W112 saloons, the W108 and W109 respectively. In a bizarre twist of fate, this car's design was based on the W111 coupé but widened and squared off as the fintail fashion was quickly fading by the mid 1960's. However both W111/W112 models were modernised; the 220SE was superseded by the 250SE which featured the new 2496cc engine, producing 150bhp at 5500rpm, which gave it a significant improvement in top speed.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 In November 1967, the 250SE was superseded by the new 280SE. The new engine had 2778cc and produced 160bhp at 5500rpm. Top speed of 120mph was hardly affected and the acceleration improved to 10.5 seconds. Inside, the car received wood veneer on the dashboard and other minor changes. A final model was added in August 1969, the 280SE, 3.5 litre. It was fitted with the brand-new M116, 3499cc, V8 engine with 200bhp at 5800rpm, a top speed of 130 mph 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 change was carried across the standard 280SE. Many view this car as an ideological successor to the W112, 300SE. Even by today's standards, this car provides comfort, class and capable precision driving from the surprisingly spritely automatic gearbox. The paintwork is in excellent condition throughout having been repainted at sometime in the its life; the mohair hood is also in very good condition with easy and smooth operation. The black leatherwork is also in good condition with the seats having an 'armchair' feel to them and, for extra comfort, this 280SE Convertible also benefits from air conditioning. The 3499cc, V8 engine bursts into life when requested and is both smooth and quiet in operation; this is an ideal, everyday classic that the new owner will want to drive every time the sun comes out. A good history file accompanies MCW51J including a V5 registration document, a current MoT test certificate together with a history file and a collection of previous MoT test certificates. This elegant 280SE convertible (although previousely a saloon) has covered a mere 4,000 miles in the last eighteen years and is sure to grace any collection - and it will certainly put a smile on your face when the sun is out.