1972 Mercedes 280SE W108

Highlights

• Over £16,200 in documented expenditure, including a specialist engine overhaul
• Imported from Germany; previously maintained in Italy before UK registration
• Cooling system comprehensively refreshed with a re-cored radiator and NOS Mercedes-Benz components
• Retains period exterior patina
• Proved its reliability on a long-distance tour from northern Spain through France to the UK

The Appeal

Hailing from an era when Mercedes-Benz engineering and build quality were at their very best, the Mercedes-Benz 280SE is widely regarded as one of the most refined saloons of its generation. Powered by the smooth M130 inline-six, the 280SE was renowned for its supreme cruising ability - the perfect car for crossing continents in opulent luxury.
Affectionately known as 'Mettleblau' by its current owner, this example has benefited from over £16,200 in documented expenditure during its time in the UK. A major engine overhaul in 2020, carried out by specialist Steve Redfearn, formed the centrepiece of this work, with continued and methodical attention in the years since.
The exterior reportedly retains its original patina with only minor areas requiring attention on close inspection, while the vendor notes some sun damage to the interior, a cracked dashboard, a cracked windscreen, and a split in the driver's seat.
Prior to much of the UK-based maintenance, this 280SE completed a tour from northern Spain through France to the UK without issue. With its thorough maintenance trail and honest presentation, it offers a compelling proposition as a usable, well-sorted classic.

Key Information

• Mileage: 67,000 km (indicated, unwarranted)
• Country of registration: UK
• Technical inspection status: MOT and road tax exempt
• Technical specs: 2.8-litre inline-six petrol, four-speed automatic
• Paperwork: Extensive service invoices and maintenance records; NOVA acknowledgement confirming import to the UK

The Detail

• Major service carried out in February 2026, including oil, filter, and antifreeze
• Front and rear shock absorbers replaced in February 2026
• Wheel bearing kit and spark plugs replaced in February 2026
• Front and rear lights replaced in February 2026
• Four new Dynamo 195/70-14 tyres fitted in June 2023
• V-belts replaced with genuine Mercedes-Benz parts in June 2023
• Interim service carried out in May 2023; cracked windscreen and wheel bearing play noted at that time (bearing since addressed)
• Radiator re-cored from two to three cores in November 2022
• NOS Mercedes-Benz water radiator installed in late 2022
• New alternator fitted in October 2022
• Bison Premium 110 battery installed in June 2022
• Headlights retrofitted for UK/EU compliance in June 2022
• New bumper rubber seals and rocker panel side mouldings fitted in July 2022
• Spark plugs, oil filter, fan belt, and water pump replaced in April 2022
• Major engine overhaul carried out in August 2020 by specialist Steve Redfearn, including a cylinder head rebuild, brake system refresh, and cooling system overhaul (£8,843)
• Underbody cleaned and treated with Ferox anti-corrosion treatment in June 2020
• Rear seatbelts fitted in June 2020
• Interior carpets and door/dashboard trims replaced in 2019 while the car was in Italy
• The vendor describes the exterior as being in good condition with original patina, noting a couple of minor patches needing attention, only visible on close inspection
• The vendor notes sun damage to the interior, a crack in the dashboard, a crack in the windscreen, and a split in the driver's seat

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