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Vintage Motors of Sarasota Inc

7519 Pennsylvania Ave, Sarasota, FL 34243
4.7
4.7 out of 5 stars
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Used 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280-Class

For Sale:$239,500
Estimated payment:$5,431/mo.
$0 trade-in, 10% down payment, 48 months, Great credit score
Used 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280-Class for sale near Bradenton, Sarasota, Saint Petersburg, Palmetto, Venice, Ruskin, Sun City Center, Parrish
Used 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280-Class for sale near Bradenton, Sarasota, Saint Petersburg, Palmetto, Venice, Ruskin, Sun City Center, Parrish
Used 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280-Class for sale near Bradenton, Sarasota, Saint Petersburg, Palmetto, Venice, Ruskin, Sun City Center, Parrish
Used 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280-Class for sale near Bradenton, Sarasota, Saint Petersburg, Palmetto, Venice, Ruskin, Sun City Center, Parrish
Used 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280-Class for sale near Bradenton, Sarasota, Saint Petersburg, Palmetto, Venice, Ruskin, Sun City Center, Parrish
  • Convertible
  • Luxury
  • Condition
    Used
  • Transmission
    Automatic
  • Exterior Color
    Silver Blue
  • Interior Color
    Navy
  • VIN
    -

Engine

    Message from the seller

    Finished in a handsome Silver Blue over Dark Blue leather with a Dark Blue top, this 280SE was among the very last of the hand-built Mercedes. Documented ownership from new. First owner bought this car new in 1970 owned it until she passed in 2003. A mere 13 280SE series cars per week passed through the hands of Mercedes artisans, and this car is among the rarest of them with only 400 Low Grille 6-cylinder cabriolets known to have been produced. The Cabriolet features a padded folding top that alone required 16 hours of hand labor to complete. By most counts, less than 40 percent of the 400 cars made were imported to the U.S. By comparison, there were over 1,200 3.5 cabriolets produced over the same period. Today, no more than a few hundred of these cars remain in existence and far fewer are in a condition this exceptional. With its flared fenders and wider grille, this car is identical in every way to a 3.5, save for the 3.5 badge on the deck-lid. However, this car is even smoother than the 3.5 having been equipped with the 300SL derived 2.8 liter 6-cylinder. The lithe, torque filled engine imparts more responsive handing and feel as compared to the 3.5, further enhancing the driving experience. Costing approximately twice as much new as a contemporary 280SL, every aspect of the 280SE is of a completely high caliber. In SE trim, the E stood for Einspritzung or fuel injection, with output rising to 180 horsepower. Capable of speeds approaching 130 mph, the 280 SE utilized a fully independent suspension that made for taut, responsive handling. Standard equipment included, power steering, 4-wheel disc power brakes, power windows, and 4-speed automatic transmission. The Burl Walnut, chrome, and leather surround you in timeless luxury. The switch gear has that solid, reassuring Teutonic engagement which cannot be duplicated. While it is hand-built, it is first and foremost a Mercedes Benz it boasts rock solid durability, its driveability and safety are second to none, and every part of this gorgeous car is still available for replacement. It has been properly stored and maintained that entire period. Very few Mercedes command the kind of exclusivity and legend afforded to the 280SE Cabriolet, making this a truly investment grade automobile. This Example has a lovely ivory colored steering wheel, upgraded modern A/C with original A/C components included with the sale. Fresh service and New stainless steel exhaust system July 2024. The W111 is a phenomenal chassis that can be used daily and driven with confidence.

    1970 Mercedes-Benz 280-Class

    The 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280-Class represents a significant iteration within Mercedes-Benz's esteemed W108/W109 chassis lineage, a period characterized by robust engineering, timeless styling, and a commitment to luxurious grand touring. While the 280-Class designation can encompass both the shorter-wheelbase W108 and the longer-wheelbase W109 models, for 1970, the primary focus is on the 280 SE (W108) and the 280 SEL (W109). These models served as the entry-point into Mercedes-Benz's prestigious upper-midrange luxury sedans, offering a compelling blend of performance, comfort, and sophisticated design.

    Design and Styling:

    The W108/W109 generation, and by extension the 1970 280-Class, is widely celebrated for its elegant and restrained design. Penned by Paul Bracq, the styling is a masterclass in automotive proportion and classic lines.

    • Exterior: The 280-Class features a long, elegant hood, a relatively upright greenhouse, and a subtly curved rear. Key design elements include:

      • Distinctive Chrome Grille: The prominent, vertically oriented chrome grille, a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz, is present and commanding.
      • Rectangular Headlights: The clean, rectangular headlight clusters contribute to the car's sophisticated and modern appearance for the era.
      • Chrome Accents: Generous use of chrome trim on the bumpers, window surrounds, side moldings, and door handles adds a touch of opulence without being overly ostentatious.
      • Body Lines: Smooth, flowing body lines and a distinct character line running along the flanks contribute to its aerodynamic and stately profile.
      • W109 Specifics (280 SEL): The SEL variant, based on the longer W109 chassis, offers increased rear-seat legroom and a generally more imposing presence due to its extended wheelbase.

    • Interior: The cabin of the 280-Class is a testament to Mercedes-Benz's commitment to luxury and driver focus.

      • Materials: High-quality materials abound, with generous use of wood veneer (often burled walnut or mahogany) on the dashboard, center console, and door panels. Leather upholstery is standard or a highly sought-after option.
      • Dashboard Layout: The dashboard is cleanly laid out with clearly legible VDO instrumentation, including speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, oil pressure, and temperature gauges.
      • Comfort: Ergonomically designed seats provide excellent comfort for long journeys. Features like ample headroom, legroom (especially in the SEL), and effective ventilation contribute to a pleasant driving experience.
      • Features: Depending on specification, the 280-Class could be equipped with features like power windows, power steering, automatic transmission, air conditioning, and a high-quality radio.

    Powertrain and Performance:

    The heart of the 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280-Class is its refined and potent inline-six engine, specifically the M130 engine.

    • Engine: The 2.8-liter (2778 cc) M130 is a double-overhead camshaft (DOHC) unit, known for its smooth operation and strong torque delivery. For 1970, the 280 SE (W108) and 280 SEL (W109) typically featured the 280 SE 2.8 variant of this engine, producing approximately 160 horsepower (118 kW) and a healthy amount of torque. This was a significant upgrade from earlier 2.5-liter models.
      • Fueling: The engine was typically equipped with Bosch mechanical fuel injection (often referred to as a fuel distributor or "D-Jetronic" system), ensuring efficient and reliable fuel delivery.
    • Transmission: Buyers could choose between a 4-speed manual transmission or the highly desirable optional 4-speed automatic transmission (often a ZF unit or a Mercedes-Benz built transmission). The automatic transmission greatly enhanced the car's effortless cruising capability.
    • Suspension and Handling: Mercedes-Benz's engineering prowess was evident in the suspension system, providing a superb balance of comfort and road holding.
      • W108 (280 SE): Featured independent front suspension with coil springs and shock absorbers, and a unique patented swing axle rear suspension.
      • W109 (280 SEL): Differentiated itself with a self-leveling hydropneumatic rear suspension (often referred to as "Hydro-pneumatic suspension"), a sophisticated system that maintained a consistent ride height regardless of load, contributing to exceptional ride comfort and stability.
    • Braking: Four-wheel disc brakes were standard, providing confident stopping power commensurate with the car's performance and weight.

    Market Position and Legacy:

    The 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280-Class occupied a prime position in the luxury car market, appealing to discerning buyers who valued quality, engineering, and understated elegance.

    • Target Audience: It was favored by professionals, executives, and those seeking a sophisticated and reliable mode of transportation.
    • Competition: Competitors included other premium sedans of the era, such as BMW's Neue Klasse sedans, Jaguar's saloons, and larger American luxury cars, though the Mercedes-Benz offered a distinct European refinement and build quality.
    • Legacy: The W108/W109 generation, including the 1970 280-Class models, is highly regarded today for its enduring design, robust construction, and the comfort and quality of the driving experience. These cars are sought after by collectors and enthusiasts for their classic Mercedes-Benz DNA and their ability to still impress with their road manners and timeless aesthetics. They represent a pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz engineering from a period when the brand was solidifying its reputation for building some of the finest automobiles in the world.
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    Listed on March 5, 2026 (a month ago)
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    This Used 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280-Class is available for drivers in Bradenton, Sarasota, Saint Petersburg, Palmetto, Venice, Ruskin, Sun City Center, Parrish ...

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