Description
Offered for sale is an incredibly original, two owner, floor shift transmission Mercedes-Benz 280SE “Heckflosse” Coupe finished in its correct timeless White over black leather with Kuhlmeister air conditioning. The W111 bodied coupe, also known as the “Heckflosse” (fin tail) or “Opera” Coupe, is undoubtedly one of the most timelessly elegant cars of the era with swooping graceful lines, impeccable proportions and plenty of chrome to accentuate all of it. The car was originally purchased by a doctor from Pennsylvania, where it was used as a daily driver in good weather months until 1975, when he and his family moved to Southern California. From that point forward he used it for the short commute between his home and his practice for next couple decades, at which point he sold it to a family friend who perpetuated its responsible and gentle use. Consequently the car has only accrued what is believed to be 80k original miles, which is certainly consistent with this car’s gorgeous original condition.
The white finish is good shape, retaining consistency, depth and luster and marred only by minor, touched-up imperfections that don’t appear in photos. The body is wonderfully straight, with fantastic panel fits and gaps. The chrome and glass are in excellent original condition, as are the color-matched wheels, wrapped in white-wall tires with plenty of remaining tread. The interior is equally as clean, in fantastic original condition showing only minimal and quite charming patina. The original heavy leather seats show only marginal wear, which is also true of the original carpets and interior panels. The wood inlaid dash is exceedingly presentable despite its age, without cracking or warping, and the headliner is in fantastic original shape. The trunk is clean and the car comes with a spare tire, jack, etc., as well as its original owners manual and stamped service booklet.
This car is incredibly solid mechanically, its engine firing immediately upon the turn of a key, idling consistently and pulling strongly and smoothly. The car drives and brakes straight and the ride quality is excellent, truly making it a joy to drive in any situation, whether cruising down the highway or tooling through town. I can’t stress enough how strong the car is: I wouldn’t hesitate driving it to San Francisco for a moment and think it would make a wonderful touring car or classic daily driver. With cabriolets and 3.5 coupes pulling wildly high premiums, we feel that W111 Coupes represent an undervalued opportunity in the collector car market that is sure to change and this example deserves the consideration of any serious Mercedes collector or enthusiast.
