The Mercedes-Benz W111 Cabriolet 280 SE represents the pinnacle of open-top luxury from the German automaker during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Produced between May 1969 and May 1971, this model was the final iteration of the W111 series, succeeding the 250 SE and 230 SE Cabriolets. Positioned in the premium luxury segment, the 280 SE Cabriolet offered a sophisticated blend of elegant styling, robust engineering, and comfortable appointments, appealing to discerning buyers seeking a refined grand touring experience. It remains a highly sought-after classic, celebrated for its build quality and timeless design.
The Mercedes-Benz W111 Cabriolet 280 SE
The W111 series, introduced in 1959, was a significant model for Mercedes-Benz, representing a move towards more modern styling and engineering. The Cabriolet and Coupe versions, known as the “Fintail” models due to their distinctive rear end styling, were particularly prized. The 280 SE, the final version of the W111, benefited from improvements in engine technology and refinement. While not initially a high-volume seller in the United States, the W111 Cabriolet gained a following among enthusiasts who appreciated its quality and exclusivity. It served as a bridge between the more traditional Mercedes-Benz designs and the more contemporary styling of the subsequent SL-Class roadsters.
Engine & Performance
The 280 SE Cabriolet was powered by the M 130 E 28 inline-six cylinder engine, displacing 2.8 liters (2778 cm3 or 169.52 cu. in.). This engine produced 160 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 240 Nm (177.01 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4250 rpm. The engine featured multi-port manifold fuel injection, a relatively advanced technology for the time, contributing to smooth power delivery and improved fuel efficiency. Power was delivered to the rear wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission. Performance figures included a 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) acceleration time of approximately 10.6 seconds and a top speed of 185 km/h (114.95 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio was 9.9 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio was 6.6 kg/Nm. While not overtly sporty, the 280 SE offered ample power for comfortable cruising and effortless highway travel.
Design & Features
The W111 Cabriolet 280 SE boasted a classic, elegant design. Its two-door, five-seat configuration offered a spacious and comfortable cabin. The fully automatic soft top provided open-air enjoyment while maintaining a degree of refinement. The exterior styling was characterized by clean lines, chrome accents, and the aforementioned “fintail” rear end. Inside, the cabin was appointed with high-quality materials, including leather upholstery and wood trim. Safety features, while limited by the standards of the era, included disc brakes on all four wheels, a significant advancement for the time. The car’s dimensions included a length of 4905 mm (193.11 in.), a width of 1845 mm (72.64 in.), and a height of 1435 mm (56.5 in.). Trunk space was a respectable 530 liters (18.72 cu. ft.). The kerb weight of the vehicle was 1590 kg (3505.35 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 2060 kg (4541.52 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | W111 |
| Generation | W111 Cabriolet |
| Type (Engine) | 280 SE (160 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | May, 1969 |
| End of production | May, 1971 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12.3 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 19.1 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 23 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 8.1 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.9 kg/Hp |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 57.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 4250 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 4250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 130 E 28 / 130.980 |
| Engine displacement | 2778 cm3 (169.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86.5 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 78.8 mm (3.1 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 | 1590 kg (3505.35 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 2060 kg (4541.52 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) | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
The Mercedes-Benz W111 Cabriolet 280 SE remains a highly desirable classic car, representing a high point in post-war German automotive engineering and design. Its combination of luxury, performance, and build quality ensures its continued appeal to collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
