Chassis No.

111.026.12.004180



For Mercedes-Benz, the W111 marked a quantum leap in its development of full it's size luxury cars.

It led the charge on many innovative features found on cars today, being the first to feature front and rear crumple zones as well as patenting retractable seat belts.

In August of 1969, the final iteration of the platform received the brand new "M116" V8.

Through the help of electronic fuel injection it developed a smooth 202 PS propelling the 280 SE 3.5 to 200 km/h.

In addition to the all-new engine the body received a facelift; nicknamed flachkühler (flat radiator), the lower grille, revised headlights and new body lines gave the car a far more aggressive and muscular look to compliment the increase in power.



In the September 1970 issue of Car and Driver legendary Mercedes engineer Rudolf Ulenhaut showcased the car; journalists praised its stopping power due to its vented brakes as well as its composure at high speeds.

Summing up the driving e...