Introducing the Classic Beauty: 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280SE Cabriolet
Step right up, folks, and feast your eyes on this gem from the past—a 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280SE cabriolet. Only about 1,390 of these beauties were ever made, between 1968 and 1971, making it rarer than a polite encounter on public transport. Lucky for us, the current owner nabbed it back in 2001. Dressed in a sophisticated dark blue with Light Beige leather seats, its elegance is undeniable.
A Ride Packed with Power and Charm
This charmer runs on a 2.8-liter inline-six engine, holding hands with a four-speed automatic transmission. It’s got a convertible tan top, 14-inch steel wheels with covers, and power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes. Fancy a throwback musical journey? It’s got a Becker Mexico cassette player fitted in, along with the always-essential air conditioning.
Interesting Fact: Mercedes-Benz produced a mere 1,390 units of this model, making it a true collector’s item today.
It’s not been lounging around idle, though. Since 2021, it’s undergone quite a few tweaks—replacement of suspension and steering parts, an overhaul of the fuel and cooling systems, replacement of engine and transmission seals, and not forgetting a good ol’ oil change scheduled for the future in June 2024. All this attention should get you plenty of envious glances when cruising around. Offered on dealer consignment, it comes with service records and a pristine Washington title.
Exterior Perfection
The vehicle was repainted in its current dashing dark blue before 2001, so you’d be enjoying a legacy look, freshened up. It boasts a brand-new tan soft top, front vent windows for extra style points, a signature “low-style” grille, and dual side mirrors. And let’s not forget those shiny chrome bumpers that practically scream, “Notice me!”
Shiny Wheels and Smooth Brakes
Those 14-inch steel wheels? They’re snug inside bright-finished covers, flaunting color-matched centers. The Boy Racer in us approved. They’re rolling on 205/75R14 Super Ride tires—plenty enough rubber to keep you moving swiftly and comfortably.
The car’s suspension system is quite the catch too. With an independent double-wishbone front setup and a rear single-joint swing axle, it knows how to handle those curves. The car halts to a stop using power-assisted disc brakes at all four corners, whilst any doubts about safety fly right out the window.
Comparison: If you’re considering something modern, check out a Tesla or perhaps the chic Renault Modus, but neither will indulge you with classic elegance.
Cabin Comforts
Inside, it’s all about luxury. The cabin boasts individual front seats and a rear bench all swathed in Light Beige leather. A splash of wood trim adds sophistication to the dashboard and A-pillars.
- Three-point seat belts
- Power windows
- A dashboard-mounted clock for added flair
- Becker Mexico cassette player
- Air conditioning
Now, it might not be perfect—there’s a slight stain on the headliner and the radio’s gone silent, but who’s counting?
Classic Instrumentation
Directly in front of you is a two-spoke steering wheel adorned with a chrome horn ring. It’s complemented by VDO instrumentation, including a 160-mph speedometer and a 7k-rpm tachometer. Though the five-digit odometer’s hit its limit and rolled over, it still reads 11k miles with the total mileage remaining a delightful mystery.
Engine and Technical Specs
Now, to charm the tech lovers: the 2.8-liter M130 inline-six engine is undoubtedly a marvel, equipped with Bosch mechanical fuel injection. Originally rated at 160 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque, it’s more than capable of a cheeky sprint (or a serene cruise). Services booked for June 2024 promise a belt replacement and an oil change. Tasks in 2021 saw replacements of fuel filters, thermostats, crankshaft seals, radiator mounts, and a host of other mechanical hocus-pocus, all lovingly documented in service records.
Power gracefully meets the tarmac through a four-speed automatic transmission, ensuring a smooth ride. Recent replacements include the transmission’s rear output seal and oil pan gasket.
The 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280SE cabriolet is not just a car; it’s a memory, a statement, and a nod to timeless charm in a world where speed and efficiency often overshadow elegance..tags.