CLASSIC DRIVE: Mercedes-Benz 280SE (W108) 3.5

Prior to being recently sold by Creative Rides, we had the opportunity to test drive this rather rare W108-generation Mercedes-Benz, a 280SE 3.5.   

Words and images: Wilhelm Lutjeharms 

Whether you prefer the double-stack headlights or the single front headlight, the W108-generation is a favourite among most Mercedes-Benz fans. Even if you prefer the four-door or the two-door, it remains a very stylish design, penned by none other than the legendary Paul Bracq.

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The 6.3-litre, V8 model in the shape of the W109 was truly the car that set the foundation for the various high-performance models to come from Mercedes-Benz and ultimately AMG. However, slotting in just below the 6.3 was the 3.5 (and also the 4.5-litre V8, which was for export to North America), which is also a rather rare four-door Mercedes.

Behind the wheel

The first thing that grabs your attention with this particular example, is the beautiful blue hue of the exterior. In an age when so many cars are white, silver and black, this blue is unique, and also perfectly suits the car. As I take my place in the driver’s seat the thin pillars are immediately noticeable as the large glass area allows a perfect view right around you, something that is simply not possible anymore with modern cars. You do feel more exposed but at the same time can also take in more of your surroundings.

This daintiness of the design flows over into the cabin. The thin-rimmed (with beautifully patina) steering wheel, controls and combination of wood veneer and metal make for a classy and solid cabin. If you think that the gearlever should have been placed next to the steering column, you would be right. However, one of the previous owners had it converted to the better and more conventional floor-mounted system. Making use of only Mercedes-Benz parts (like the later models) it doesn’t look out of place.

The seats are comfortable and although this is still a heavy car, the power-assisted steering system allows you to turn the ‘wheel with only a couple of fingers. The large dials are a joy to look at, while the rev counter is the smaller dial in the middle.

Turn the key and there is a soft rumble that reminds that this is not a four- or six-cylinder engine. As you move the gearlever towards “D” there is some movement from the drivetrain and the moment you press the throttle the car eagerly moves forward. Once traffic has cleared along Boyes Drive, a full press of the throttle pedal confirms that this car is no slouch. The nose lifts a little and the revs climb past 2 and 3 000 rpm while the four-speed transmission shifts through the first three gears.

Sure, it is not fast in any modern way, but if you remind yourself that this car is 51 years old, and the type of performance a standard car like a Volkswagen Beetle had back in the day, this rates as a true performance sedan. Through the corners there is body lean, but at the same time the ride is cushioned and comfortable. There are even two individual arm rests, one for each passenger, and this further adds to your level of relaxation.

Cruising along at an engine speed of 1 500 to 2 000 rpm, the engine is completely unstressed, but at the same time I can imagine that the car will also be capable of high three-figure speeds and be stable at the same time. 

The view over the bonnet with its curves on either side towards the fenders and the classical Mercedes-Benz star on the far end, all contribute to the traditional and highly satisfying view through the large windscreen.

Once parked, a number of people, from various walks of life, points and asks about the car. Drive certain sports cars, and that is not the case. But with such a classic car people are immediately interested or want to know more or share a story with you. 

The benefit of having four doors means this is a true practical classic. Apart from being able to fit more people in the car to share the experience with, you will also be able to fit a whole lot of luggage – the latter is also the case with the coupé, though. Gosh, there is even air-conditioning for our hot summer days. 

A few days after our drive a potential client decided to purchase this car, again indicating the continued interest in classic Mercedes-Benz's in South Africa. 

Specifications

1972 Mercedes-Benz 280SE 3.5 (W108)

Engine: M116 3,5-litre, V8

Power: 149 kW at 5 800 rpm

Torque: 286 Nm at 4 000 rpm 

Transmission: 4-speed automatic, RWD

Weight: 1 555 kg

0-100 km/h: 9.0 seconds

Top speed: 210 km/h

Years produced: 1970 – 1972