Mercedes-Benz 280 SE 3,5L V8 Cabriolet - W III - 1971 Ex-Cher Serial number: 111027-12-001895 Engine: front mounted 5 main bearing V8 M 166 E 35/116.980 Bore x stroke: 92 x 65,8 mm Capacity: 3 499 cc Timing gear: chain-driven SOHC per cylinder bank Intake: Bosch D-Jetronic injection Compression ratio: 9.5:1 Maximum power: 200 bhp @ 5 800 rpm Transmission: 4-ratio + R automatic Chassis frame: steel monocoque Front suspension: independent, double wishbones, coil springs, telescopic shocks Rear suspension: independent, coil springs, telescopic shocks Wheelbase: 2 750 mm Front track: 1 482 mm Rear track: 1 485 mm Dry weight: 1 574 kg Brakes: four discs, dual circuit, hydraulic Wheels: 14" Tyres: 195/75 R14 Michelin Performance: 205 kph/128 mph Production: 1 232 cars In January 1968, Daimler-Benz introduced the six-cylinder 280 SE which replaced the 250 SE. At the same time the 300 SE coupé and convertible were phased out. In September 1969 the 280 SE 3.5 coupé and convertible were introduced with the new V8 3.5 litre engine capable of delivering 200 bhp. Just a few stylistic changes were introduced concerning the grille, the bonnet, the bumpers on both the six-cylinder and the V8. The 280 SE 3.5 was phased out in July 1971. The convertible was the rarest, the most exclusive being the 300 SE cabriolet (708 examples) followed by the 280 SE cabriolet (954 cars), the 280 SE 3.5 V8 (1 232 examples) then the six cylinder 280 SE cabriolet (1 390 examples). The 280 V8 is a rare car, as fast as reliable and much looked for. The car offered here had been restored from the chassis. This is a U.S. model which belonged to Mr. Bono, the Hawai governor whose plate still appears on the radiator. He presented the car to his friend, the singer Cher. The car maker's plate is missing but the stamped chassis number had been checked. The car is dark brown with shaded glasses. The front seats are new and made with the same kind of tan leather as the original ones. The rear seats and carpets are original. The hood is dark brown. A large loud-speaker is fitted in the rear compartment. The equipment comprises a sophisticated air-conditioning system, a Blaupunkt radio receiver and a leather hood cover. The car shows 76 706 miles (122 700 km) on the clock. European title Ex American title available € 40/60 000