1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet Conversion
Ended May 16, 2025 at 7:10 PM UTC
Description
The Mercedes-Benz W 111 chassis, designed by the renowned Paul Bracq, made its grand entrance in 1959, captivating automotive enthusiasts with its timeless elegance. Starting production in 220 form in 1961, this iconic chassis underpinned numerous models, with the 1968–71 six-cylinder 280 SE and the 1969–71 eight-cylinder 280 SE 3.5 the most sought-after — especially in cabriolet form.
These vintage Mercedes are more than just stylish — their advanced engineering paid off with solid construction, reliable drivetrains, and comfortable performance. Inside the hand-crafted cabin, occupants were spoiled with genuine hardwood trim, tasteful brightwork, and plentiful amounts of leather. And because fewer than 10,000 280 SEs and 280 SE 3.5s were built, these luxurious automobiles remain highly collectible and highly sought-after.
This 1971 280 SE 3.5 represents the pinnacle of W 111 engineering. It’s powered by a 200-horsepower V-8, and it originally left the factory in two-door coupe form. However it has also undergone a clean convertible conversion, making it an homage of the most desirable W 111s ever made: a 1971 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet.
Highlights
Most-desirable W 111 280 SE 3.5 Mercedes, now in Cabriolet form
M 116 3.5-liter V8 rated at 200 hp
Four-speed automatic transmission
Refinished in black paint with a tan interior
Behr air conditioning converted to R134
Convertible conversion done by Driver’s Seat Investments of Roswell, Georgia
Features
14-inch wheels wearing 205/75R14 Hankook Optimo tires
Independent front and rear suspension
Recirculating ball steering
Disc brakes
Becker Europa AM/FM radio
Known Imperfections
Dash, seats, and door panels show wear commensurate with its age
Clock doesn’t work
Tires are in good condition but older
Included
Keys
Owner’s manual
Driver’s Seat Investments convertible operation manual
Spare tire and cover
Vehicle documentation
Receipts dating back to 2011
Ownership History
The consignor states, “This car was purchased in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, on 8/13/2013 with 56,898 actual miles. It is currently showing 60,450 miles. The Cabriolet conversion was done around 15 years ago. It has always been stored in a climate-controlled environment, and recent maintenance includes an oil change and a battery replacement.”
Additional Notes
A Broad Arrow Auctions Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner of this vehicle. Broad Arrow Auctions is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hagerty.
Contact: Alexander Keck Phone: 402.617.9770 email: akeck@hagerty.com
All auction listings on Hagerty Marketplace are created using information provided by the seller. The Marketplace team and the seller have reviewed all information for accuracy to the best of their abilities. Bidders are ultimately responsible for conducting their own due diligence before placing a bid, including verifying details, condition, registration requirements, and compliance with applicable laws. For any questions or additional information, contact the seller.
1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet Conversion
