This 1969 Mercedes-Benz 280SE cabriolet is one of approximately 1,390 examples produced between 1968 and 1971. Since its acquisition by the current owner around 2012, the car underwent a comprehensive refurbishment lasting approximately two years.
The restoration included a repaint in the original shade of Red (paint code 576), completed circa 2014. During this time, the bumpers were re-plated, and the black convertible soft top along with its headliner were replaced with new components. The car rides on 14″ steel wheels fitted with bright-finished, color-matched wheel covers and Goodyear Integrity tires at each corner.
Underneath, the suspension features an independent double-wishbone front setup with coil springs and a rear single-joint swing axle. Stopping power is provided by power-assisted disc brakes on all four wheels, with the master cylinder replaced during refurbishment to ensure optimal braking performance.
Inside, the cabin is appointed with black leather upholstery covering individual front seats and a rear bench. Wood trim accents the dashboard, A-pillars, and center storage console, contributing to the classic luxury aesthetic. Convenience and safety amenities include three-point front seatbelts, power windows, a dashboard-mounted analog clock, and a Kuhlmeister air-conditioning system that has been converted to use R134a refrigerant.
The Blaupunkt radio powers on, though the audio system currently does not produce sound, as noted by the seller. The two-spoke steering wheel with a chrome horn ring overlooks classic instrumentation, including a 140-mph speedometer, a 7,000-rpm tachometer, and gauges for fuel level, coolant temperature, and oil pressure.
Power comes from a 2.8-liter M130 inline-six engine equipped with Bosch mechanical fuel injection. This powertrain was factory rated at 160 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque, paired with a four-speed automatic transmission that delivers power to the rear wheels. The transmission mount was replaced as recently as last year.
The odometer shows 61,000 miles, with approximately 1,500 miles added under the current ownership. The sale includes refurbishment records from 2014–2016, the car’s original data card, a maintenance log, literature, and a clean Maryland title.
Decoding the data plate reveals the following original specifications:
– Paint: 576 G Red
– Electric windows (code 236)
– Power steering and floor-shift automatic transmission (code 426)
– Version for USA market (code 491)
– Left-side exterior mirror (code 503)
The visible VIN on the car is 111.025-12-001976, whereas the Maryland title lists an extended version as 1114012512001976.
This W111 cabriolet is offered on dealer consignment in New Jersey with no reserve, presenting a rare opportunity to own a beautifully restored classic Mercedes-Benz 280SE. Additional photographs, including detailed shots of the underside and refurbishment documentation, are available in the gallery below.
https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1969-mercedes-benz-280se-cabriolet-23/
