Open-Top Opulence: The Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5 Convertible from Schaltkulisse

In a world increasingly dominated by fleeting trends and disposable technology, there remains an unwavering allure to objects crafted with an almost obsessive dedication to quality and timeless design. Few vehicles embody this ethos quite like the Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5 Convertible. This isn’t just a car; it’s a rolling sculpture, a testament to a bygone era of automotive excellence, and a truly exceptional piece of engineering that continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike. Schaltkulisse is currently offering a pristine example of this automotive icon, a 1971 model, for EUR 299,900, residing in the heart of Munich, Germany, and it’s a machine that demands your undivided attention.

The 280SE 3.5 Convertible, produced in a limited run of fewer than 1,400 units between 1969 and 1971, stands as the zenith of the W111 series. Its reputation stems from an unparalleled blend of handcrafted artistry and sophisticated design. Glide your eyes over its lines and you’ll find a symphony of graceful understatement. Clean, flowing contours are perfectly complemented by judicious chrome accents, culminating in that instantly recognisable, large upright grille flanked by twin round headlights – a definitive statement of mid-century European elegance. Whether the convertible top is up or seamlessly folded away, the car retains its iconic silhouette, a visual marvel built upon a robust unibody chassis that marries durability with refined beauty.

Underneath that exquisite bonnet lies the mechanical heart of this beast: Mercedes-Benz’s inaugural production V8 engine. This 3.5-litre powerhouse delivers a confident 200 horsepower and 286 Nm (211 lb-ft) of torque, providing smooth, unhurried acceleration. Paired with a precise 4-speed automatic transmission, the power is delivered to the rear wheels with an almost serene efficiency, ensuring a driving experience that remains both enjoyable and deeply engaging. This isn’t about raw speed; it’s about effortless cruising, about the journey itself becoming the destination.

The specific 280SE 3.5 Convertible currently presented by Schaltkulisse is a true gem. Originally finished in the elegant Silver Grey Metallic (option code 180) from the factory, this particular example was assembled in November 1970 and destined for the USA. Crucially, a letter from Mercedes-Benz confirms that it still retains its original, matching-numbers engine (11698012002705), a detail that significantly enhances its collectibility and authenticity.

Historical records reveal a fascinating journey: a single owner in the USA until 2007, as evidenced by its old Californian title, before its export to Germany in 2011. It was then acquired by the renowned restoration experts, Rosier Classic Sterne. At this point, the car had already undergone a restoration, but Rosier took it to the next level. They meticulously refined the vehicle, removing the American side markers and replacing the mileage-based odometer with a kilometre-based unit, preparing it for its European chapter.

In March 2012, Rosier sold this magnificent machine to a discerning German collector at the prestigious Techno Classica Essen exhibition. Later that same year, in November 2012, the engine received a professional rebuild by the esteemed Motoren Instandsetzung Oldenburg in Germany, ensuring its continued mechanical prowess. This German collector cherished the 280SE until June 2022, at which point it passed into the care of its most recent European owner.

Now, this exceptional 280SE stands in stunning restored condition, a living testament to the unparalleled craftsmanship of German engineering. Its extraordinary build quality guarantees a driving experience that is simultaneously luxurious and remarkably serene, offering a feeling of complete detachment from the hustle and bustle of the outside world. Owning a Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5 Convertible transcends mere car ownership; it’s a profound statement of enduring style, a tangible slice of automotive history that effortlessly continues to command attention and inspire awe wherever it goes. For those with a keen eye for classic perfection, this exquisite example is available for inspection by appointment at Schaltkulisse’s showroom in Munich, with all European taxes already paid.

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