1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE Cabriolet – Exterior and Interior – Classic Expo Salzburg 2021

Inhalte Verbergen

1 Technical Details:

2 Design:

3 Historical Significance:

4 Quirks and Pop Culture:

5 Display and preservation:

6 Conclusion:

7 Sources:

Technical Details:

The 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE Cabriolet was introduced with a fresh 2.8-liter inline-six engine, replacing both the 250 SE and 300 SE models. Producing 160 horsepower at 5,500 rpm via mechanical fuel injection, the engine delivered smooth and reliable performance. Coupled with a four-speed automatic transmission and power steering, it balanced performance and comfort for grand touring. The model featured independent suspension and disc brakes on all four wheels, while standard features included air suspension and advanced braking for its time. With a top speed of 190 km/h and a curb weight of 1,615 kg, the W111 E28 series offered refined engineering in a stately package.

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz
Model Name: Mercedes-Benz 280 SE Cabriolet
Year of Manufacturing: 1968

Design:

The Mercedes-Benz 280 SE Cabriolet carried forward the subtle elegance of the “fintail” era, even as its sedan counterpart evolved. It shared its bodywork with the more powerful 3.5 variant but retained its own identity through a combination of graceful lines and a manually operated soft top. The exterior featured a long, stately silhouette, understated chrome accents, and carefully sculpted bumpers and grilles. Inside, passengers were treated to fine materials and luxurious design touches that defined Mercedes-Benz in the late 1960s.

Historical Significance:

Produced from 1968 to 1971, the Mercedes-Benz 280 SE Cabriolet was designed for discerning buyers who valued luxury over brute power. Positioned just below the 3.5 V8 variant, it delivered much of the same charm at a more accessible price point. With only 1,390 units hand-built during its production run, it remains a highly coveted collector’s car today. Originally priced at 28,100 Deutsche Marks, its value quickly rose, reflecting its exclusivity and craftsmanship. The model solidified Mercedes-Benz’s place in the luxury cabriolet segment, offering elegance and technological sophistication.

Quirks and Pop Culture:

While it didn’t dominate the silver screen, the Mercedes-Benz 280 SE Cabriolet has found its way into vintage car shows, European summer rallies, and concours d’elegance circuits. Favored by enthusiasts as a stylish alternative to the more expensive 3.5 V8, its quiet elegance and rarity make it a frequent showstopper. Its enduring charm makes it a prized piece of Mercedes-Benz heritage in collector circles.

Display and preservation:

The vehicle was exhibited at the Classic Expo Salzburg in 2021. As one of Austria’s premier classic car events, the show has established itself as a central meeting point for collectors, restorers, and enthusiasts from across Central Europe. The 2021 edition took place at Messezentrum Salzburg and featured more than 250 exhibitors, along with a strong turnout of over 20,000 visitors. Attendees could explore a broad range of offerings—from historical vehicles and motorcycles to automobilia, spare parts, and literature.

Conclusion:

The 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE Cabriolet is more than just a luxury convertible—it’s a celebration of handcrafted excellence, understated design, and period-defining engineering. With its balanced performance, rare production numbers, and timeless appeal, this model continues to captivate classic car aficionados across the globe.