1974 Mercedes-Benz 280E Saloon - Pale Yellow - 72,125km - M110 2.8L Inline-6, Automatic
Overview
The Mercedes-Benz 280E represents the pinnacle of 1970s German engineering and understated luxury. Launched in 1968 as the successor to the 250SE, the 280E brought a larger, more powerful engine to the W114 platform, establishing itself as the thinking enthusiast's saloon. This 1974 example is a five-door sedan finished in period-correct pale yellow, a colour that captures the optimistic aesthetic of the era. The 280E was never about flash; it was about substance. A sophisticated inline-6 engine, independent suspension, and Mercedes' legendary build quality made it a car for those who understood engineering. Today, the 280E occupies a sweet spot in the classic market: old enough to be genuinely interesting, young enough to be usable, and mechanically straightforward enough to maintain without specialist knowledge.
This particular example presents as a well-preserved example of its era. The pale yellow paintwork holds good colour saturation across all visible panels, with minor stone chipping on the bonnet leading edge consistent with highway use. Panel gaps are even and body lines remain straight, suggesting no major accident history. The interior shows the patina of age and use, with the original brown leather upholstery displaying wear to the bolsters and seat edges appropriate to 72,125 kilometres of service. The dashboard is intact with all original gauges present and legible. Chrome trim remains bright, and the original Fuchs-style alloy wheels are fitted with period-appropriate tyres. The engine bay is clean and original, with the M110 engine showing its age honestly but presenting no signs of major work or modification. The five-door configuration provides practical access, and the five-seat layout offers genuine usability for a classic of this vintage.
The 280E market has strengthened considerably in recent years as collectors recognise the model's significance and reliability. Comparable examples in similar condition have achieved $18,000 to $28,000 at auction, depending on originality and service history. This example, with its original specification, sits comfortably within that range. For a buyer seeking a genuine, usable classic Mercedes with the prestige of the three-pointed star and the satisfaction of mechanical simplicity, this 280E represents authentic value.
Condition
Exterior: Pale yellow paint holds good gloss across all panels. Minor stone chipping on bonnet leading edge. Panel alignment is even with no evidence of accident repair. Chrome trim is bright. Original Fuchs-style alloy wheels present well with minor kerb marks consistent with age. Tyres are period-appropriate and legal.
Interior: Original brown leather upholstery shows wear to seat bolsters and edges. Dashboard is intact with all gauges present and legible. Steering wheel shows age-appropriate wear. Headliner is intact. Carpets show wear consistent with 72,125 kilometres.
Engine Bay: M110 2.8 Litre inline-6 is clean and original. No evidence of major modification or work. Fluid levels are present. Engine bay presentation is honest and unrestored.
Mechanical: Automatic transmission engages smoothly. Steering is responsive. Braking is firm. Suspension is compliant and settled. No unusual noises or vibrations noted during inspection.
Features
* 2.8 Litre M110 inline-6 petrol engine, naturally aspirated
* Automatic transmission with smooth engagement
* Rear wheel drive with independent suspension
* Five-door saloon body with five seats
* Original brown leather upholstery
* Original dashboard with all gauges intact
* Original Fuchs-style alloy wheels
* Chrome trim throughout
* Right-hand drive configuration
* 72,125 kilometres on odometer
* Owner's manual and service documentation present
* Matching engine and chassis numbers
Specifications
Year: 1974
Make: Mercedes-Benz
Model: 280E
Series: Saloon
Body Type: Sedan
Drive Type: Rear wheel drive
Transmission: Automatic
Engine: 2.8 Litre M110 Inline-6 Petrol
Cylinders: 6
Induction: Naturally Aspirated
Doors: 5
Seats: 5
Odometer: 72,125 Kilometers
Colour: Pale Yellow
Steering: Right hand drive
Inspection recommended.
Chassis No: 11406222102243
ENG No: 11098122016412
Sold unregistered
(Key #34cc Marple)
Lloyds stock #222639+1
#CCALL
#CCEUR
Location of item: 60 Marple Avenue, Villawood, NSW, Australia
** This vendor is not registered for GST - therefore GST is not applicable on this asset **
As Standard Auction Practice all Vehicles are Sold Unregistered
As with all vehicles sold in the Classic Car Division, they have been well looked after by their previous owners. This is an Auction Sale. This asset is sold under standard auction conditions, as is, where is. High volumes of incoming product prevent our team from being able to inspect all items individually. All photos, descriptions, odometer readings, hour readings, engine specifications and any condition reports should be used as a guide only and have been compiled after speaking with the owners. To find out more about this lot or to book a live video inspection please contact the Auctioneer Contact which can be found on the Auction Details page. There is no statutory warranty & no cooling off period.
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