This W111-era Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 Coupe is an appealing and well-maintained example of the desirable classic pillarless coupe, offered from long-term ownership. Under the bonnet sits a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V8, producing around 172kW and driving the rear wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission. This original Australian-market example is understood to have been manufactured in 1970, though was first registered in February 1971, and has been with the seller for 16 years. The odometer indicates 59,668 miles, though this is not warranted, and the seller believes that the true mileage is around 159,668 miles. This 280 SE 3.5 is believed to be one of only 245 right-hand drive examples produced, and one of just 88 Australian-delivered models. This 280 SE is finished in the attractive hue of Blue Metallic over a Parchment leather-trimmed interior, featuring contrasting blue carpets, and handsome wood veneer trim inlays. It rides on a set of 14-inch steel wheels with chrome and body-coloured hubcaps, shod in Maxxis MA-1 whitewall tyres. The factory specification includes a top-tinted windscreen, electric windows, heater and ventilation controls, and a Smiths air conditioning system. This example also features sought-after ‘California’ headlights, twin front spotlights, and the original ‘Traveluxe’ dealer sticker on the rear windscreen. This 280 SE has been upgraded with a Sony CD stereo with auxiliary input, and Sony speakers. The car comes with a jack, a spare wheel, a fire extinguisher, the original stamped service booklet with a plastic wallet, the warranty card, a catalogue booklet, and a collection of maintenance invoices. The seller notes a previous scrape on one of the front wings. Please refer to the photo gallery to assess the exterior and interior condition. Specific notes from the seller include: repairs carried out on one of the front wings and bonnet, wear on rear seats, front seats reupholstered in 1996, and the dashboard upholstery showing signs of wear. The seller is not aware of any mechanical or electrical faults. This 280 SE’s most recent maintenance was carried out in May 2023 at an indicated 159,574 miles, and consisted of an engine oil and filter change, new spark plugs, a new steering tie rod, and an electric window switch being replaced. A new distributor cap, rotor cap, and ignition leads were fitted in May 2023. The gearbox was reconditioned, the wood trim was French polished, and new suspension was installed in July 2020 at an indicated 154,474 miles. Other notable maintenance includes new brakes installed in 2020, and a new battery in 2022. Mar 1971, 560 Miles at Traverluxe Auto’s Pty Limited Feb 1973, 18,182 Miles at Chellingworth Motors Pty Limited Jun 1973, 21,286 Miles at Chellingworth Motors Pty Limited Oct 1973, 23,935 Miles at Chellingworth Motors Pty Limited Oct 1974, 29,198 Miles at Chellingworth Motors Pty Limited Oct 1986, 74,815 Miles at Orlando Motors Aug 1987, 77,727 Miles at Orlando Motors Feb 1988, 79,661 Miles at Orlando Motors Apr 1989, 81,282 Miles at Orlando Motors Jul 1989, 81,509 Miles at Orlando Motors Mar 1990, 81,780 Miles at Orlando Motors Aug 1990, 82,188 Miles at Orlando Motors Nov 1990, 82,241 Miles at Orlando Motors Feb 1991, 83,889 Miles at Orlando Motors May 1991, 86,408 Miles at Orlando Motors Sep 1991, 90,500 Miles at Orlando Motors Jan 1992, 92,720 Miles at Orlando Motors May 1992, 94,600 Miles at Orlando Motors Jul 1992, 96,611 Miles at Orlando Motors This W111-generation Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 Coupe is an appealing and well-maintained example of the elegant classic pillarless coupe, offered from long-term ownership. Reported to be in good overall condition given its age and usage, with an attractive colour scheme, timelessly handsome styling, and a smooth V8 engine, this 280 SE would make a smart addition to any assembly of classics, and a stylish companion for weekend drives, and visits to classic car shows. The description of this consignment is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy. For vehicles, unless otherwise stated, potential buyers should also assume that any cherished registration may be retained by the seller. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details. This vehicle’s VIN has been checked against the Australian Personal Property Securities Register, and there is no security interest or other registration kind logged against the serial number. This vehicle has been checked through the Austroads NEVDIS system, and there are no markers under the written-off or stolen databases.