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Closed Auction- Unsold

1972 Mercedes 280SE 3.5 Saloon

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  • Mileage75,326
  • TransmissionAutomatic
  • Engine3.5L V8
  • LocationTamworth

AUCTION CLOSED

1972 Mercedes 280SE 3.5 Saloon

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Introduction

Glyn Parry
Professional Consigner

This 280SE is in amazing condition, with its rich golden paint looking fantastic and its mechanical systems having benefitted from a full restoration. Aside from a slightly tricky central locking system, it's ready to be enjoyed!

The car was stored for around thirty years before being brought back to life. A significant amount of time and money has been spent on this restoration, primarily on the engine rebuild, gearbox work, new steering rack and steering head at the highly respected SLSHOP in Stratford-upon-Avon. This particular 280SE boasts a 3.5L V8 engine that was a special edition version at the time, limited to around 11,000 units.

This right-hand-drive beauty is owned by Eamonn, who after 2 years is looking to sell it. This looks to be a sound investment whether you want to keep the car stored for investment, or to use it for leisurely drives.

This auction listing was written from information supplied by Glyn after meeting Eamonn the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Meet the owner

After going to the Stuttgart motor show, Eamonn fell in love with the style of the W108 and diligently waited until the right example came around.

The stacked headlights are a particular feature that Eamonn loves. The rarity of this car on the British roads is also a highlight, with only 10-20 on UK roads today.

To maintain its condition, the car has been dry-stored under his ownership, driving in the summer months sparingly. Eamonn has spent roughly £11,000 on restoration work, including drivetrain replacement, gearbox overhaul, and much more - making this car very special indeed.

Eamonn
Vehicle Owner

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Exterior

The exterior of the car is immaculate and is a testament to the previous owner’s work. The chrome work is believed to be original and shines in tandem with the beautiful gold paint.

Wheels and Tyres

Brand new tyres wrap the beautiful chrome wheels, which have been colour-matched to create a seamless style around the whole of the car.

Bodywork

The bodywork is impeccable as you can see from the photos.

When viewing each panel you will be impressed with the condition. The chrome work is believed to be original with only a minor defect - on the offside door at the bottom of the window the gap looks to be slightly off.

Paint

Like the bodywork, the paint looks exceptional and even across the car - it really has the “WOW factor”.

As mentioned, there are around 10-20 comparable vehicles on the UK roads today, but we think this one is bound to be unique in this condition.

Glass and Trim

The glass looks great whilst there are some original seals that may need to be tended to. Eamonn, however, states that although some maybe worn, the integrity is still there and they function as expected.

Interior

Eamonn states that although excellent, there is the typical patina to be expected in a car of this vintage. It creates a feeling of authenticity and class, not feeling tatty at all.

Seats and Carpets

The seats are in fantastic condition especially considering the car’s mileage. They have been maintained well over the years, with no cracks or tears, and look a delight to sit in.

Dashboard

Although looking slightly worn, the originality imbues this interior with a sense of a life well lived.

The dials look clean and functional.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The steering wheel is in excellent condition and is one of the key features of the interior.

The gear stick looks good considering the car’s mileage.

Mechanics

The special edition 3.5L V8 makes this the superior 280 SE and it is extremely comfortable to drive.

Engine and Gearbox

Eamonn mentions the gearbox has been overhauled under his ownership, further enhancing the reliability of this classic masterpiece.

Many drivetrain components and other mechanical parts have been replaced, please see the paperwork.

Suspension and Brakes

The W108 saloon is renowned for its suspension, offering smooth and luxurious handling.

The brakes have recently been repaired by Eamonn’s chosen specialist.

The Drive

A Mercedes saloon will always be one of the most comfortable rides any passionate driver will have. Along with the automatic transmission, get ready to cruise and enjoy the roads.

As you can see from the 'Engine Review' video, the car settles into a smooth tick-over and sounds great! Would you expect anything less from a V8?

Electrics and Other

Eamonn explains he has had some issues with the central locking system, which may need to be looked at by the new owner.

Apart from that, the dials and lights work as expected.

History and Paperwork

Eamonn has spent £11,000 on the car under his ownership, making this a true bargain for anyone who wants a ready-to-drive example.

Little paperwork exists prior to Eamonn’s ownership: however, he has the original logbook. Since taking on this car Eamonn has created a folder of all the invoices and bills that he has accumulated.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
15.12.2017 MOT 74,609
Key Details
  • ModelW108
  • TransmissionAutomatic
  • Reg. Date08.09.1972
  • CC3,500
  • Mileage72,000
  • HistoryPartial
  • ColourGold
  • Interior ColourBrown / Black
  • Interior TrimLeather / Wood
  • Chassis #10805722211855
  • Engine #11698022013131
  • RestoredYes
  • Engine RebuildYes
  • MOT ExemptYes
  • Road Tax ExemptYes
  • HPi ClearYes - Checking in Progress
  • Former Keepers3
  • Tyre AgeNearly New
  • LHD or RHDRHD
  • VisitedYes
  • Sale TypePrivate
  • Owned2 Years
  • Key FeatureCondition and Rarity






Auction Closed

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This car didn't meet its reserve price and may soon be available as a private sale - please contact us for more information.

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RyanM
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RyanM

Hi Eamonn/Glyn. Is it possible to provide a bit more detail on the central locking ‘quirk’ please? As in, is it just a matter that when turning the key, the passenger and rear doors do not unlock or does the drivers door not unlock also? It sounds like it is an intermittent personality trait but would be good to have an idea of if this is to be expected most of the time or just every now and again?!? And finally, is it a new issue as I would have assumed the SL Shop would have picked up on this… Read more »

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Vehicle Location

Tamworth

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