1972 Mercedes-Benz 280SE

This 1972 Mercedes-Benz 280SE four-door sedan received a recent respray in Navy Blue and retains its original M117 4.5-liter V8 mated to a 3-speed automatic transmission. This W108 was manufactured in Stuttgart in October 1971 and came factory-outfitted with a power-operated sunroof, four-wheel disc brakes, woodgrain interior trim, and air conditioning. With a rust-free body, newer rotors, fresh fluids, and a clean original Parchment MB-Tex interior, this W108 280SE is now offered with a clear California title in the seller’s name.

The first W108 launched in 1965 with a second series beginning in 1967, and this 280SE from later in the generation was repainted in Navy Blue with resulting glossy finishes, good panel fitment, and a rust-free body. The bumpers, headlight surrounds, grille, window trim, and sideview mirrors are chrome-finished and in good condition. Additional exterior attributes include stacked headlights and polished exhaust tips at the rear. The photo carousel contains photographs of the restoration process.

Steel 14” wheels with color-matched Mercedes-branded center caps are wrapped in all-season Milestar tires. Steering is power-assisted. and braking is handled by four-wheel discs with replacement rotors.

The interior is fitted with Parchment MB-Tex bucket seats, matching replacement door panels, a blue dashboard, and blue carpeting. Amenities include air conditioning, power windows, a push-button Blaupunkt AM/FM radio, a power-operated sunroof, and gloss woodgrain dash trim. The trunk is lined in a vinyl mat and contains a spare tire with associated jack equipment.

Instrumentation includes a 160-mph speedometer, an analog clock, and gauges for fuel level, coolant temperature, and oil pressure. The five-digit mechanical odometer reads 61k miles, although true mileage on the chassis is unknown.

The 4.5-liter M117 V8 was factory rated at 195 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque when new, with recent maintenance including new fluids. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a 3-speed automatic transmission and a gated shift lever.

Multiple photos showing the condition of the underside are available in the carousel.

Invoices and some photos of the refurbishment can be found in the gallery. A video is also provided below.