1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE Sedan - White - 85,542km - 2.8L Inline-6, Automatic

Overview

This 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE represents a significant chapter in Mercedes' post-war engineering narrative. The W108/W109 platform, produced from 1965 to 1972, established the template for the modern luxury saloon: independent double-wishbone suspension, power-assisted steering, and a sophisticated inline-six engine delivering genuine refinement. The 280 SE variant, introduced in 1968, brought the 2.8-litre M110 engine to the range, offering improved performance and torque over earlier 250 models. This right-hand drive Australian-delivered example carries the hallmarks of Mercedes' engineering philosophy from an era when build quality and mechanical integrity were non-negotiable. At 85,542 kilometres on the odometer, this is a genuinely low-mileage classic that has spent its life as a cherished possession rather than a daily workhorse.

The exterior presents in honest condition befitting a 53-year-old classic. The white paint holds reasonable gloss across all major panels with expected patina and minor stone chipping visible on the bonnet leading edge and front guards. Panel gaps remain even and consistent, indicating no major accident history or structural repair. The chrome trim, bumpers, and trim rings show appropriate age-related oxidation and patina rather than active corrosion. All four doors operate smoothly, and the window mechanisms function as intended. The original steel wheels wear period-correct hubcaps and are shod with modern tyres in serviceable condition. The overall presentation is that of a well-preserved example that has been maintained rather than restored, which carries genuine appeal to purists and collectors seeking originality.

The interior tells a story of careful ownership. The original tan leather upholstery shows wear consistent with the vehicle's age and mileage, with expected creasing and patina on the driver's seat bolster and armrests. The dashboard remains intact with no cracks or separation, and the original steering wheel, whilst showing age, is structurally sound. The instrument cluster reads 85,542 kilometres and functions correctly. The original wood-trimmed steering wheel and dashboard trim panels remain in place, contributing to the authentic period atmosphere. Climate control and power steering function as designed. The cabin retains its original character without modern retrofits, making it a time capsule of early 1970s Mercedes luxury.

The engine bay houses the original 2.8-litre M110 inline-six, identifiable by the engine cover badging. The engine shows appropriate patina with light surface oxidation on ancillary components and the engine cover itself. Fluid levels are present and serviceable. Battery terminals show light corrosion typical of age but remain functional. The engine bay is honest rather than detailed, reflecting the vehicle's genuine mileage and preservation rather than restoration. All hoses and belts appear serviceable, and the overall mechanical presentation suggests a vehicle that has been maintained rather than neglected.

In the current classic Mercedes market, 280 SE examples in original, unrestored condition command genuine interest from collectors seeking authenticity. Recent comparable sales of similar W108 platform vehicles in equivalent condition have achieved prices in the AUD $18,000 to $28,000 range, depending on mileage and specification. This example's low odometer reading (85,542km) and right-hand drive Australian delivery position it favourably within that range. The appeal lies not in show-room perfection but in genuine originality and the opportunity to acquire a significant piece of Mercedes engineering history in honest, preserved condition.

Features

* 2.8-litre M110 inline-six petrol engine, 6 cylinders, naturally aspirated
* Automatic transmission with smooth, responsive shift characteristics
* Rear-wheel drive with independent double-wishbone suspension front and rear
* Power-assisted steering with responsive, direct feel
* Original tan leather interior with period-correct trim
* Original wood-trimmed steering wheel and dashboard panels
* Climate control system functional
* Original instrument cluster with working gauges
* Four-door saloon configuration with five-seat capacity
* Steel wheels with period-correct hubcaps
* Modern tyres in serviceable condition
* Chrome bumpers and trim rings with appropriate patina
* Right-hand drive configuration (Australian specification)
* Unregistered, sold as-is where-is

Condition Notes

* Engine bay shows light surface oxidation on engine cover and ancillary components, consistent with age
* Battery terminals exhibit light corrosion, functional but serviceable
* Spare wheel well shows light surface rust, superficial rather than structural
* Interior leather shows wear consistent with 85,542km and 53 years of use, particularly driver's seat bolster
* White paint exhibits minor stone chipping on bonnet leading edge and front guards
* Chrome trim and bumpers show age-related patina and light oxidation
* No evidence of major accident repair or structural damage
* Panel gaps remain even and consistent throughout
* All door mechanisms and window regulators function smoothly

Specifications

Year: 1971
Make: Mercedes-Benz
Model: 280 SE
Body Type: Four-door Sedan
Engine: 2.8-litre M110 Inline-6, Naturally Aspirated
Transmission: Automatic
Drive Type: Rear-wheel drive
Odometer: 85,542 Kilometres
Colour: White
Seats: 5
Steering: Right-hand drive
Doors: 4
Cylinders: 6
Registration: Unregistered
Price Guide: AUD $18,000 - $28,000 (based on comparable W108 platform sales in original condition)
Chassis No: 22005987

If you have any questions relating to this vehicle, or if you would like to arrange a physical or virtual inspection, please contact Gavin directly on 0480 809 935

(Key #1CC Marple)

Lloyds stock #580109+1

Location of item: 60 Marple Avenue, Villawood, NSW, Australia

** This vendor is not registered for GST - therefore GST is not applicable on this asset **

As Standard Auction Practice all Vehicles are Sold Unregistered



As with all vehicles sold in the Classic Car Division, they have been well looked after by their previous owners. This is an Auction Sale. This asset is sold under standard auction conditions, as is, where is. High volumes of incoming product prevent our team from being able to inspect all items individually. All photos, descriptions, odometer readings, hour readings, engine specifications and any condition reports should be used as a guide only and have been compiled after speaking with the owners. To find out more about this lot or to book a live video inspection please contact the Auctioneer Contact which can be found on the Auction Details page. There is no statutory warranty & no cooling off period.

Transport quotes are provided in the bidding centre for delivery to your door or to your nearest depot. Alternatively, you can arrange your own transport, or we can assist with obtaining a quotation for transport to your door prior to bidding. Email [email protected] with your name and lot/stock number and our transport team will be in contact.

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