6 photos

1972' Mercedes-Benz 280

£18,995

Published 15 August 2026ID: WXV1qX

Motodrome
Oxfordshire
+44Show phone

Information from the owner

Age: 54 years

Mileage: 121000 km

Displacement: 4500 cc

Fuel: Petrol

Transmission: Automatic

Exterior color: Red

Interior: Air Conditioning

Seller's comments about 1972' Mercedes-Benz 280

Motodrome offer this 1972 Mercedes S-class (W108) 280SE 4. 5 Auto, finished in Metallic Red with cream interior.Compared to the horrors that the British motor industry was churning out at the time, these uber-cool saloons, the first of the S-Class models, were light years ahead in terms of engineering quality and dynamic ability. Firstly, a bit about the model, as I don’t think the 4. 5 was ever officially sold in the UK – we had the 280 SE 3. 5 V8, which remain highly sought-after. The 4. 5 V8 engine is basically an overbored M116 3. 5 V8 engine from the aforementioned car, with electronic fuel injection, and turns what appears to be a staid, if quality, classic 70’s style car into a real Q-car, with sledgehammer performance for it’s day. And as a bonus, you don’t have the complexity of the air suspension that comes with the similar looking W109 models. And another bonus – it has the iconic stacked headlamps that add so much character.Fitted with automatic transmission, power steering and brakes, air conditioning, electric windows, central locking, stereo, and rear seat belts. This one comes from the dry state of Arizona, which accounts for it’s very well-preserved structure. Arriving here in 2019, the owner since 2021 (a qualified engineer) initiated a comprehensive refurbishment programme , including, but not limited toAll injectors removed and ultrasonically cleanedCentral locking renovatedElectric windows rebuilt Air conditioning recommissionedRadiator refurbishedNew ignition electrics from battery to plugsNew king pins and top fulcrum bushesNew screen rubber and boot rubberBrake calipers refurbishedNew shocks all roundNew tyres in 2022New headlampsFull service with all fluids and filters changed.We have a big file of bills for the above, plus handwritten records too. Odometer reading 22000 miles which, for the avoidance of doubt is likely to be 122000, it presents beautifully and powers down the road with a real sense of occasion. It’s a little like being the star of a 1970’s gangster movie.The 4. 5 V8 engine coupled with the automatic transmission provides lots of go when the loud pedal is pressed, and feels like it was hewn from a solid block. It’s absolutely lovely in my opinionOn our own website, you'll find our usual 2 videos – a walkaround appraisal, and driving impressions, which form part of the description.Viewing by prior appointment