late model 280 SE 3.5

[fwb44]

Is there scope on this forum for vintage Mercedes-Benz models? I'm looking to buy a LHD '70 or '71 280 SE 3.5 cabrio and would like some dialogue with other interested members if possible - I know there are many other M-B forums but it takes so long to establish yourself as a newbie ...

 

[paulcallender]

I'd certainly hope so, although my experience so far is that there is a mere handful of people, who are into older models; compared with many hundreds who are seeking info such as "how do I upgrade the stereo to play MP3s", etc.

The car you're seeking, I'd say veers towards the "desirable" end of the classic Mercs, through all periods. Prices tend to reflect this. Also, you get into a situation where its value is way greater than its worth compared to a modern car of similar capability, purely because of its "classic" status. An average example may be worth £15,000, compared to a late 1970s W123 in similar condition which could be worth, say £1,000 or so and would be on the edge of classic status.

One question - why dream of a LHD car? If its your dream car, why not go for the RHD, rare as they are? Price/availability?

For info, I have a 1976 W114 280CE and I've had it in literally thousands of bits, and put it all back together again (and it works!!!)

 

[fwb44]

Lots of answers to this - I'll get back to you tomorrow

 

[fwb44]

The car you're seeking, I'd say veers towards the "desirable" end of the classic Mercs, through all periods. Prices tend to reflect this. Also, you get into a situation where its value is way greater than its worth compared to a modern car of similar capability, purely because of its "classic" status. An average example may be worth £15,000, compared to a late 1970s W123 in similar condition which could be worth, say £1,000 or so and would be on the edge of classic status.

One question - why dream of a LHD car? If its your dream car, why not go for the RHD, rare as they are? Price/availability?

Yes, I agree, possibly one of the most desirable classic M-Bs. I've seen unrestored models go for around £10-15K and restored ones for anything up to £60K. I never liked the W123 series much ... I think it will remain 'on the edge of classic status' for a lot longer yet, if it ever achieves it. Most of them seem to be in an advanced state of decay now, except in those parts of the world where they're bodged up indefinitely

LHD because I want to take it abroad with me to be my daily driver! I will probably end up buying one in continental Europe somewhere anyway. Oddly enough there are a good many kicking around in the US where they don't seem to be that highly prized ...

 

[pascal]

Well Francis

I'm looking forward to seeing this car when you get it.

I'm presuming it is the W111 cabriolet with the M116.980 engine. The engine should be no problem to service/repair, as it's fitted to other European models. I would be inclined to look into a Californian car, if prices are keen.

 

[fwb44]

Yes, that's precisely the one I'm after. The summer months are not the best time to buy one tho'! And by golly there are some insensitively over-restored and grossly over-priced examples out there ... Whatever happened to the notion that the original designers & engineers might have got it just about right? This car was never going to set the world on fire - but just be an elegant, up-market, adequately-powered and -equipped 4-seater sports coupé or cabriolet for gentle part-time recreational use. Alas, many of the surviving examples seem to have been refurbished into something much more flashy and cruisy than would have ever been originally intended ... rant over ...