1971 | Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5 Cabriolet

The 280 SE, with its timeless styling, was first introduced in August of 1961, a derivative of the 220 Sedan introduced in 1959. The basic design and chassis—internally designated W111—endured more than a decade, receiving over the course of its production five single-overhead cam engines, four six-cylinder engines, and a V8, offering more horsepower with each iteration. Mercedes-Benz introduced the 280 SE 3.5 in the fall of 1969. It combined the classic styling of earlier Mercedes-Benz models with an all-new 230-brake horsepower V8 engine featuring Bosch D-Jetronic electronic fuel injection. A fully independent suspension with disc brakes at each wheel was standard.

Sumptuous accommodations for four included a fully lined top in the traditional stacked German cabriolet layout. The framework of the convertible top was concealed from view by a full interior headliner; each top required more than 16 hours of hand labor. On average, only 13 cars were finished per week, with Mercedes-Benz producing just 1,232 examples between 1969 and 1971. This was the marque’s final, truly hand-built automobile.