As said in the previous chapter, with the introduction of the 280SE 3.5 model, the grille and bumpers were modified somewhat. There was also a higher specification, with automatic transmission (the gearlever was now mounted on the central tunnel and not on the steering column anymore), electric windows lifts, air conditioning and a stereo radio as standard. The sealed-beam headlights shown here in these two pictures were not standard but were necessary to meet American safety requirements.

Yet none of this could disguise the fact that the W111 Coupé shape was beginning to show its age after almost 10 years of production. Mercedes did consider to install the new 4.5 liter V8 but this was considered too expensive to be justifiable for a low-volume, time-expired design so this plan was forgotten very quickly. So it was that the 280SE 3.5 was only produced for only two full seasons and, in the middle of 1971, both it and the 280SE were withdrawn form the Mercedes range. The new W107 350SLC was waiting to take over the market slot vacated by the W111 Coupés and Convertibles - although few people would suggest that even that magnificant car was ever able to replace them. Besides that, the 350SLC wasn't available as Convertible. People who wanted a 5 seater open Mercedes had to wait until the 1990s when the open version of the W124 Coupé was revealed.

From the outside, the basis of the 280SE 3,5 Coupé/Convertible was the 280SE Coupé/Convertible. So for a detailed description of the 280SE 3,5, please read chapter 6) 1967: The 280SE Coupés and Convertibles first. You can read the word "280SE 3,5" where it says "280SE".

The same applies for the interior of the 280SE 3,5 as for the exterior, at least I couldn't find any differences. So for a detailed description of the 280SE 3,5, please read chapter 6) 1967: The 280SE Coupés and Convertibles first. You can read the word "280SE 3,5" where it says "280SE".