- Manufacturer: Daimler Benz
- Model: 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet
- Year: 1971
- Exterior Color: Silver
- Interior Color: Black
The 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet is a highly esteemed luxury car known for its elegance, advanced engineering, and timeless design. Here are some key details about this iconic vehicle:
Design and Styling
- Body Style: The 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet features a sleek, elegant design with a convertible body style, offering open-top motoring with a touch of luxury. It is a two-door vehicle with seating for four passengers.
- Exterior: The exterior design is characterized by clean, graceful lines and a well-proportioned body. It features a prominent chrome grille with the iconic three-pointed star emblem, along with stylish headlamps and chrome accents throughout. The car has a classic, understated look that exudes sophistication.
- Interior: Inside, the 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet is luxuriously appointed with high-quality materials such as leather upholstery, wood trim, and chrome details. The cabin is designed to offer maximum comfort and style, with spacious seating, a well-designed dashboard, and attention to detail in every aspect.
Performance
- Engine: The 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet is powered by a 3.5-liter V8 engine, producing around 200 horsepower. This engine provides smooth and powerful performance, allowing for brisk acceleration and confident cruising.
- Transmission: The car is typically equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission, which complements the engine’s performance and ensures a smooth driving experience.
- Suspension: The suspension system includes independent front and rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. This setup allows the car to handle various road conditions with ease.
Historical Context
- Luxury and Innovation: The 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet was part of the W111 series, which represented the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz luxury and engineering at the time. It was known for its advanced technology, superior build quality, and refined driving experience.
- Limited Production: The 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet was produced in limited numbers, making it a rare and highly collectible vehicle. Its combination of luxury, performance, and exclusivity has made it a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts.
Notable Features
- V8 Engine: The introduction of the 3.5-liter V8 engine marked a significant enhancement in performance for the W111 series, offering more power and refinement compared to the earlier inline-six engines.
- Luxurious Appointments: The car came with a range of luxury features, including power windows, air conditioning, and high-quality audio systems, which were advanced for the time.
- Safety Features: Mercedes-Benz was known for its commitment to safety, and the 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet included features such as crumple zones and a robust safety cell to protect occupants in the event of a collision.
Legacy
- Collector’s Item: Today, the 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet is highly sought after by classic car collectors. Its rarity, timeless design, and reputation for quality make it a valuable addition to any collection.
- Cultural Impact: The car has been celebrated in automotive history as one of the finest examples of Mercedes-Benz craftsmanship and engineering. It represents an era of elegance and luxury that continues to inspire modern automotive design.
The 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet remains an enduring symbol of automotive excellence, combining luxury, performance, and timeless style in a way that few cars have managed to achieve. Its legacy continues to be celebrated by enthusiasts and collectors around the world.

