In 1967 Mercedes-Benz updated the 250SE Coupe and Cabriolet with a larger engine and named the models 280SE. These were strictly a two-door design on the W111 platform which used the low grill while the W109 successor used a much larger grill.
With the 280SE Mercedes fitted a larger 2778cc engine which produced 160 bhp. This effectively retired the 300SE’s M189 V8 which had less power. By 1969 Mercedes-Benz offered the optional and desirable M116 3499 cc V8 engine in in the 280SE 3.5 which was the ultimate W111.
Other slight changes to the 1967 280SE include one-piece hubcaps, different mirrors and an optional wood-veneer dashboard.
Our feature example is one of the first prototype 280SE Cabriolets that was displayed at the 1968 Brussels auto show. As such it features unique appointments such as a four-speed, floor-shift transmission.
Mercedes enthusiast Mark Passarelli of Rancho Merced LLC. found the car and took it to the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center in Irvine, California who verified the car and found its unique history.
With just 39,500 kilometers (24,850 miles) on the odometer, Mark commissioned a complete restoration in Middle Blue Metallic with cognac leather. It was offered this way at RM Auctions’ 2012 Monterey Sports Car Auction.
Story by Daimler AG
In Detail
| tags | w111, 280se |
| submitted by | Official Galleries |
| type | Series Production Car |
| production years | 1967 – 1969 |
| built at | Germany |
| engine | Inline-6 |
| position | Front Longitudinal |
| aspiration | Natural |
| valvetrain | SOHC, 2 Valves per Cyl |
| fuel feed | Bosch D-Jetronic Injection |
| displacement | 2778 cc / 169.52 in³ |
| driven wheels | RWD |
| front tires | 185 V 14 |
| rear tires | 185 V 14 |
| front brakes | Discs |
| rear brakes | Drums |
| steering | Recirculating Ball |
| f suspension | Double Wishbones w/Coil Springs, Anti-Roll Bar |
| r suspension | Swing Axle w/Coil Springs |
| curb weight | 1650 kg / 3638 lbs |
| wheelbase | 2750 mm / 108.3 in |
| front track | 1482 mm / 58.3 in |
| rear track | 1485 mm / 58.5 in |
| length | 4905 mm / 193.1 in |
| width | 1845 mm / 72.6 in |
| height | 1420 mm / 55.9 in |
| transmission | 4-Speed Manual or Automatic |
| final drive | 3.69:1 |
| 0 – 100 kph | ~9.4 seconds |
| fuel capacity | 82 litres or 21.65 gal. |
Auction Sales History
1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE Cabriolet 111.025.12.004187 – sold for $165,000 Rare as One of as Few as 200 “Low-Grille” Cars. One of Just 1,390 280 SE Cabriolets Built. One of Mercedes-Benz’s Final Hand-Built Models. Accompanied by Service Records, Books and Tools. Expertly Sorted and Maintained by Andrew Bach.
Auction Source: The 2015 Amelia Island Auction by Gooding & Company
1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE Cabriolet 11102512000274 – sold for $107,250 Restoration Completed in 2002. Late Iteration of the Classic 1960s Mercedes-Benz W111. Beautiful Cosmetic Details. Offered with Tools and Manuals. Certifcate of Authenticity from Mercedes-Benz Classic.
Auction Source: The Scottsdale Auctions 2015 by Gooding & Company
1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE Cabriolet 111.025.12.004384 – sold for $140,800 Rare as One of Only 200 “Low-Grille” 280 SE Cabriolets Built. One of Just 1,432 280 SE Cabriolets Built in Total. Properly Maintained Example. Bare-Metal Refinish and Interior Re-Trim Completed in 2008.Desirable Features Include Automatic, Becker Radio, Air-Conditioning, and Power Windows. Very Fine Example of One of Mercedes-Benz’s Final Hand-Built Models.
Auction Source: The Scottsdale Auctions by Gooding & Company
1967 Mercedes-Benz 280SE Cabriolet ‘Low Grille’ Factory Prototype 111025-10-000041 – sold for $220,000 The factory prototype, matching numbers ‘low grille’ 280SE. Built for the 1968 Brussels Salon, which is photo documented. In private ownership since 1970, and imported to the U.S. in 1974. Fully restored by marque expert Mark Passarelli from 1999–2000. Factory supplied with four-speed manual transmission and features fitted luggage.
Auction Source: Monterey 2012 by RM Auctions
1970 Mercedes-Benz 280SE Cabriolet – sold for $74,250
This highly desirable, two-owner example from 1970 is now offered from some 20 years of single ownership with clearly evidenced regular maintenance and proper storage. It has received just one repaint, approximately 20 years ago, and the handsome dark blue finish is enhanced by tan upholstery and a blue convertible top. Correctly presented with approximately 98,500 actual miles, this fine example rides on a new, correct set of radial tires and comes with a car cover, owner’s manual, and a correct spare tire.
Auction Source: 2012 St John’s by RM Auctions
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