1968 Mercedes 280SE For Sale
Sale Price: $179,995
We are delighted to offer for sale this truly outstanding collector grade example of one Mercedes finest cars. Few classic motor cars possess the design elegance, engineering excellence and enduring prestige of the W111 Series 280SE. Representing the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz craftsmanship during the marque’s golden era, the W111 series was engineered to standards that many enthusiasts believe have never been equalled.
Combining timeless styling, impeccable road manners and exceptional build quality, the 280SE remains one of the most coveted luxury saloons of the 1960s.
This exceptional example has an outstanding provenance. Delivered new by Yorkstar Motors, Sydney, it was first registered to Mr P.M. Anderson of Brookvale in September 1968. It retains its original engine, body and factory interior colour combination, all verified by the accompanying Mercedes-Benz Data Card and an official confirmation letter from Mercedes-Benz. Finding a matching-numbers Australian-delivered example with documented provenance of this calibre is increasingly rare.
Its quality has been recognised by those best qualified to judge. This 280SE was awarded the prestigious Mercedes-Benz Club Champions of Champions Concours title in both 2023 and 2024—the only two years in which it has been entered. Such consecutive recognition is a testament to the meticulous restoration, authenticity and outstanding presentation of this remarkable motor car.
Powered by Mercedes-Benz’s celebrated 2.8-litre Bosch fuel-injected inline six-cylinder engine, the 280SE delivers effortless performance, remarkable refinement and the solid engineering for which the marque became renowned.
The quality of this particular vehicle has been elevated even further by an extraordinary four-year, no-compromise restoration completed in 2022. Every component was painstakingly restored, rebuilt or replaced using genuine factory-original Mercedes-Benz parts wherever possible. This extended to the engine, all ancillaries, AC, transmission, brake system, interior, brightwork, electricals, every part was attended too.
The work was entrusted to recognised marque specialists, ensuring authenticity and attention to detail throughout. The result is a motor car that presents and performs to an exceptional standard while remaining faithful to its original factory specification.
Since completion of the restoration, the car has travelled fewer than 3,000 miles, preserving the freshness and integrity of the extensive work undertaken.
The W111’s reputation extends beyond its engineering. Elegant Paul Bracq styling has ensured these cars have aged with remarkable grace, while features including four-wheel disc brakes, independent suspension, power steering, Bosch mechanical fuel injection and an exceptionally luxurious interior made the 280SE one of the world’s finest executive automobiles when new.
They are remarkably rare cars. Only 3,797 Coupes were produced and whilst accurate production numbers for RHD variants isn’t known it is believed these were in the low hundreds. As a result, outstanding examples such as this are becoming increasingly difficult to acquire.
Australian-delivered, matching numbers, comprehensively documented and restored to an award-winning standard, this 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280SE represents a rare opportunity to own one of the finest examples anywhere.
Whether destined for concours competition, prestigious touring events or a significant private collection, this is a Mercedes-Benz that stands among the very best—an automobile that exemplifies the craftsmanship, integrity and engineering excellence upon which the reputation of Mercedes-Benz was built.
The option code plate confirms this car remains in its very attractive original colour, of a deeper red sometimes referred to as Oxblood (colour code 576G). The paint is flawless and the panel gaps excellent throughout.
It also confirms that the car was originally equipped with Behr air conditioning (option code 306), electric power windows (option code 236), right hand exterior mirror (option code 502) and this is an Australian delivered car (option code 625).
The interior of this example is particularly special. The leather has been restored or replaced where necessary and the timber veneers like new. The dash is particularly stunning and like new. The air conditioning has been refurbished and also upgraded. As you would expect everything works as it should.
The engine bay is spotless along with the boot. The underside is as good as it is on top.
Everywhere you look this car presents as new. It is quite incredible and a testament to the quality of work involved in getting a car to this standard.
As you would expect the driving experience is superb. Turn the key and the engine starts immediately and settles into an even idle. Select drive and you pull away effortlessly. The ride comfort in these cars is legendary and this does not disappoint. There is ample power and all the inputs of steering, brakes and throttle are simply excellent. It is hard to believe you are driving a car from the 1960’s and this car would be more than happy keeping pace with modern traffic, but in supreme comfort and far more style.
The car comes with original books, keys and is serviced ready for its next owner to enjoy. What a car!
