1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet

Building upon the new-generation upscale Mercedes-Benz models launched for 1965, the V-8 powered 280 SE 3.5 debuted in late 1969. Just 4,502 of these unqualified masterpieces were built, mostly by hand, including 1,232 cabriolets.

Purchased new by Henry Paine McIntosh IV from America’s oldest Mercedes dealer Mercedes-Benz of Monterey/Stahl Motors, this 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet enjoyed the sunny climates of both Pebble and Palm Beaches. During a 1981 theft, the 3.5-liter engine was damaged and McIntosh successfully argued for a brand-new replacement long block, complete with accessories, which was directly sourced from Mercedes-Benz North America in Los Angeles. The replacement engine was shipped to the Mercedes specialists at Abrams Motors of Florida, where the engine was installed and the car was refreshed to virtual perfection, confirmed by a statement that accompanies the car. Mr. McIntosh drove the Mercedes-Benz just 6,000 additional miles before selling it to the current owner in 1988, as documented by the accompanying Bill of Sale. From then, it was located at a summer home on Long Island. From December 1999 to August 2000, the experts at Paul Russell and Company thoroughly restored the cabriolet at a documented cost of $139,000, including a repaint in its rare, factory-original Moss Green. Beautifully presented and immensely collectible, this 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet is offered complete with a plethora of books, correspondence, and records documenting its history, and is a fantastic choice for any collector who seeks fine hand-built German engineering.