The Mercedes-Benz W111 Cabriolet 280 SE 3.5 V8 represents the pinnacle of the W111 series, a line of luxury automobiles produced from 1959 to 1971. Introduced in August 1969 and continuing through July 1971, the 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet was the final iteration of this iconic open-top design. Positioned firmly in the luxury grand touring segment, it offered a sophisticated blend of performance, comfort, and prestige. The W111 series, and particularly the Cabriolet, became synonymous with post-war German engineering and a symbol of aspirational wealth.
Mercedes-Benz W111 Cabriolet 280 SE 3.5 V8: A Legacy of Luxury
The W111 series underwent several revisions throughout its production run, evolving from the initial 220SE to the more powerful 280SE and ultimately the 280 SE 3.5. The “3.5” designation signified the introduction of a new, larger 3.5-liter V8 engine, a significant upgrade over previous six-cylinder offerings. This engine, combined with the elegant Cabriolet body style, created a vehicle that appealed to discerning buyers seeking a refined and capable open-air motoring experience. The W111 Cabriolet was never a high-volume seller, contributing to its current rarity and collectibility.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet is its M 116 E 35 3.5-liter V8 engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant produced 200 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 286 Nm (210.94 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine featured multi-port manifold fuel injection, a relatively advanced technology for the time, contributing to smooth power delivery and improved efficiency. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission. Performance figures included a 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) time of approximately 8.9 seconds and a top speed of 205 km/h (127.38 mph). While not overtly sporty, the 280 SE 3.5 offered ample power for comfortable and confident cruising. The engine’s longitudinal front-mounted layout contributed to balanced handling characteristics. The power-to-weight ratio of 8.3 kg/Hp and torque-to-weight ratio of 5.8 kg/Nm further illustrate the engine’s capability within the vehicle’s overall weight.
Design & Features
The W111 Cabriolet boasts a classic, elegant design characterized by its long hood, flowing lines, and understated chrome accents. The two-door, five-seat configuration provided a practical yet luxurious interior space. The fully automatic soft top offered open-air enjoyment while maintaining a degree of refinement. Inside, the cabin was appointed with high-quality materials, including wood trim, leather upholstery, and polished metal accents. Safety features, while limited by the standards of the era, included disc brakes on all four wheels, a significant advancement for the time. Power steering was also standard, making the relatively large vehicle easier to maneuver. The trunk offered a usable 530 liters (18.72 cubic feet) of space. The overall design philosophy prioritized comfort, style, and a sense of occasion, making the 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet a true status symbol.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | W111 |
| Generation | W111 Cabriolet |
| Type (Engine) | 280 SE 3.5 V8 (200 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | August, 1969 |
| End of production | July, 1971 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 13.5 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 17.4 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 20.9 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 7.4 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 200 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 57.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 286 Nm @ 4000 rpm (210.94 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 116 E 35 / 116.980 |
| Engine displacement | 3499 cm3 (213.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 65.8 mm (2.59 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1650 kg (3637.63 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2120 kg (4673.8 lbs.) |
| Max load | 470 kg (1036.17 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 530 l (18.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 82 l (21.66 US gal | 18.04 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4905 mm (193.11 in.) |
| Width | 1845 mm (72.64 in.) |
| Height | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2750 mm (108.27 in.) |
| Front track | 1482 mm (58.35 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Hydro-pneumatic element, Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 14 |
Today, the Mercedes-Benz W111 Cabriolet 280 SE 3.5 V8 is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Its combination of elegant styling, robust engineering, and luxurious appointments ensures its continued appreciation as a classic automobile.
