The 280SEL 4.5, a variant of Mercedes-Benz’s W108/W109 S-Class introduced in 1969, was built on the extended wheelbase W108 platform and powered by the M117 4.5-liter V8 engine. Finished in Tobacco Brown over a tan leather interior, this final-year example was originally delivered to its original owner in Oakland, California, before being acquired by the seller in 2022. It has been upgraded with a height-adjustable air suspension and comes factory-equipped with a 3-speed automatic gearbox, 14” steel wheels, central locking, power accessories, a Becker radio, and more. This 1972 280SEL 4.5 is now being offered for auction by its seller out of California.
The steel body is finished in Tobacco Brown with chrome accents, including the hood ornament, grille, window surrounds, bumpers, and moldings. It has a driver-side mirror, a retractable antenna, dual exhaust outlets, and rides on 14” steel wheels adorned with body-color centers and wrapped in Uniroyal Tiger Paw whitewall tires. The seller notes a ding in the front grille, scuffs on the front bumper, and areas of cracked paint on the body. Detailed images are provided in the gallery.
The interior presents seats upholstered in tan leather contrasted by color-keyed carpets. Equipment includes a two-spoke steering wheel and analog gauges, a central locking system, power windows, air conditioning, a heated rear window, and a Becker Europa radio. The seller notes cracks in the dashboard and steering wheel, age-related surface wear, a missing driver’s sun visor clip, and non-functional air conditioning.
Power comes from a 4.5-liter M117 V8 engine equipped with Bosch fuel injection, which delivers a factory-rated 198 HP and 264 lb.-ft of torque to the rear wheels through a 3-speed automatic transmission. Four-wheel disc brakes facilitate stopping power. It has been modified with an adjustable air suspension system with compressors and a tank mounted in the trunk. The seller reports that the steering gearbox was serviced and the radiator refurbished under current ownership, though a leak has been noted and should be monitored.
This sale will include a clean title.
Comments (23)
Highest Offer Received $10,000.00
I think I have seen this around LA. Any details on what air management was done? GLWS
Bid in the amount of $8,000
Bid in the amount of $7,750
Bid in the amount of $7,500
Bid in the amount of $7,000
Last half hour! Also if you need assistance with shipping we can help with that as well. Good luck and happy bidding!
Bid in the amount of $6,300
Bid in the amount of $6,050
Bid in the amount of $5,800
Bid in the amount of $5,550
Bid in the amount of $5,280
We’re in the last day here! Happy new year to everyone, we’re looking forward to seeing this 280SEL go to a great home to start the year!
Bid in the amount of $5,000
Thanks for clearing the confusion and swift response.
@420Time the leak is not from the radiator sorry for the confusion its from the steering gearbox and is a very small drip. Car does not overheat or anything it really rides nice
Do we have an estimate what the cost would be to replace the radiator due to the leak?
Bid in the amount of $4,420
Bid in the amount of $4,000
@URS6 Sure is! I've personally seen this car at a few car shows locally and It draws a crowd everywhere it goes. We're happy to present it for sale and are looking forward to seeing it go to its next owner!
Bid in the amount of $2,800
Air suspension is an awesome touch!
Hi everyone and Merry Christmas! This is G with Heritage Gruppe, were happy to present this 280SEL here on Pcar!
The current owner has had a blast taking this to local car shows and in his time of ownership has added air ride suspension to it, otherwise the car remains original.
If you have questions please contact us or leave a message below and well get back to you soon! Happy Bidding!