The Mercedes 280 SE convertible was considered one of the most elegant and well-built vehicles of its era, with a powerful engine and a smooth, comfortable ride. This highly sought-after luxury classic with an exquisite interior and advanced engineering was a true status symbol that was often owned by celebrities and wealthy individuals.
Source: Hagerty
The Mercedes 280 SE convertible was a highly desirable luxury automobile when it was produced from 1959 to 1971. It was praised for its refined performance, elegant design, and comfortable ride. With its high-quality construction and luxury features, the model represented a status symbol and exclusive vehicle at the time of its production, due to its combination of performance, luxury, and style. The car featured a powerful engine and a high level of standard equipment, including power windows and air conditioning. Moreover, the convertible version also featured a fully automatic convertible top that could be raised or lowered at the touch of a single button.
Source: Supercars.net
The Mercedes-Benz 280 SE was designed by a team of Mercedes-Benz engineers and designers to create a luxury automobile that offered both style and performance. Created by a division of the Daimler AG company this vehicle was part of the W111 series, which also included the 220, 220D, 230S, and 280S models. So, the W111 series was first introduced in 1959, with the 280 SE convertible being one of the models available at launch. The car was based on the W111 Sedan platform and featured a 2.8-liter inline-six engine and a 4-speed manual transmission as standard equipment. The model was available in two body styles, a 2-door coupe, and a 2-door convertible, and was considered a luxury vehicle, with high-quality materials and finishes used throughout the car. It was known for its elegant design, luxurious interior, and smooth performance. This cabriolet was considered a status symbol and was famous as one of the best convertibles of its time. It was a popular car among Hollywood stars and directors, due to its luxurious and elegant design and was featured in several films throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Some notable films that featured the vehicle include: “The Great Race” (1965) – a comedy film starring Jack Lemmon and Tony Curtis, “The Thomas Crown Affair” (1968) – a crime film starring Steve McQueen and Faye Dunaway, “The Godfather Part II” (1974), a crime drama film directed by Francis Ford Coppola.
Source: The Oldtimer Galarie
The 1968 Convertible was part of the W111 series, which was produced from 1959 to 1971. The company introduced the cabriolet version in 1959 which featured a 2.8-liter, inline six-cylinder engine (M130) that produced 160 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. The engine was paired with a four-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission and could speed up to a maximum of around 120 mph speed, accelerating from 0-60 mph in around 9 seconds. With a curb weight of 3,200 pounds, it featured a fuel capacity of 21.1 gallons. This luxury automobile also received disc brakes on all wheels and had independent suspension at all four corners. The 1968 edition cabriolet received a luxurious interior that included leather seats, wood trim, and a range of power options. With a seating capacity of four people, the vehicle featured a fully automatic soft top, which could be operated at speeds of up to 25 mph. Moreover, a removable hardtop could be stored in the trunk when not in use. The 1968 Mercedes 280 SE cabriolet was considered a luxury grand tourer and was one of the most expensive automobiles of its time. It was known for its smooth ride, precise handling, and high level of craftsmanship.
Source: YouTube
The 1968 release was a luxurious cabriolet owned by many notable people, including celebrities and politicians. Some famous owners of the automobile include Elvis Presley who owned a 280 SE cabriolet in white, John Lennon with his silver one, Peter Sellers, Steve McQueen, and King Hassan II of Morocco. In addition, the vehicle was also used in many movies and TV series.
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