Mercedes-Benz 280 1969

Mercedes Benz 280 SE Cabriolet “Dunkeloliv or Dark Olive”

The Mercedes-Benz 280 SE Cabriolet ranks among the most elegant open four-seaters Mercedes-Benz built during the 1960s. The W111 line, designed by Paul Bracq, combines classic proportions with an exceptionally refined level of finish. Even today, the model remains highly convincing thanks to its distinctive styling, robust engineering, and timeless presence. This 1969 example is finished in Dunkeloliv, also known as Dark Olive. It is an especially fitting color for a W111 Cabriolet: understated, stylish, and distinctive without ever becoming ostentatious. Combined with the elegant lines of the body, the color gives this Mercedes a particularly strong presence. The 280 SE was introduced in 1968 as the successor to the 250 SE. Under the hood is the 2.8-liter M130 six-cylinder engine with mechanical fuel injection. It produced approximately 160 horsepower and was known for its smooth and dependable character. The 280 SE Cabriolet was conceived as a comfortable, high-quality Grand Tourer rather than a sports car, but it offered more than enough performance for relaxed and brisk long-distance travel. Production of the 280 SE Coupé and Cabriolet remained limited. Just over 5,000 examples were built between 1968 and 1972. Today, the Cabriolet is a highly sought-after version, partly because it combines the classic W111 styling with the later and more powerful six-cylinder drivetrain. After the considerably more expensive 280 SE 3.5 Cabriolet, the 280 SE Cabriolet is regarded as one of the most attractive variants in the range. What makes this example particularly special is its level of originality. The car remains in very good and largely original condition. The bodywork was only repainted by a specialist, while the underlying fabric of the car has been preserved. That matters, because it is precisely the original details that define the character of this Mercedes. That originality is clearly evident inside as well. The finish, materials, and details have exactly the right appearance and give the car an authentic atmosphere. This is not a fully rebuilt example in which everything has been made new and immaculate, but a carefully preserved Cabriolet with genuine character. The interior has exactly the ambiance you would expect from a well-preserved W111. This Mercedes-Benz retains its matching-numbers components and is accompanied by the corresponding datacard. This provides clear documentation of the car’s original specifications. Its provenance is equally interesting: the car comes from an enthusiast in the historic center of Amsterdam. This example presents exceptionally well, thanks to its color combination, original details, and overall condition. The car has been carefully preserved, well maintained, and possesses a presence that is not easily recreated. A 1969 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE Cabriolet in Dunkeloliv, matching numbers, accompanied by its datacard, and with a high degree of originality. An exceptionally stylish W111 Cabriolet with the right presence, engineering, and history. Gallery Aaldering has been a family-owned business since 1975, driven by a passion for the finest and most beautiful automobiles in the world. We export our vehicles worldwide; please ask us about the possibilities.