This 1972 Mercedes-Benz 280 SEL is a stock and original example with 103k miles. The current owner purchased it in 2011 with some mechanical needs and spent over $10k sorting the car to bring it to reliable driving condition. The car features its original 4.5 L V8, sunroof, Becker Europa radio, working A/C and is said to run and drive well. Black over red is a good combo and the car benefits from new belts, new axle seals, new shocks, and new sub-frame mounts. The seller is representing the owner in the sale and has provided an inspection report viewable below. The sale includes a build card, original service booklet, clean Ohio title, and receipts dating back to 2006.

Glossy black paint shows some orange peel and aging upon closer inspection. Panel fit is good with some minor rust bubbles showing on the left rear quarter. The brightwork/trim is all accounted for with some dents and fading on the chrome bumpers.

The factory electric sliding sunroof works and the seller also installed a new windshield and new trunk seal. Inside the trunk is a spare and original tool kit, while under the carpet some surface rust can be seen on the floor.

The dark red MB-Tex interior was likely redone at some point. The dash shows off wood inserts, original working Becker Europa stereo radio and quartz clock conversion. Recent issues addressed include power window and door lock repairs, with a new speedometer and new seat belts also installed.

There are some age-related issues showing on the wood dash, steering wheel and other interior surfaces like the headliner. Gauges and interior lighting are said to be functional. The left turn signal detente does not stay engaged. The A/C is said to work well with an R134a conversion done in 1997 (see sticker photo). The SEL offered a longer wheelbase over the SE model, increasing rear passenger legroom.

The clean engine bay houses the original 4.5L SOHC V8 Engine which is said to run well, producing 230 HP when new. The 3-speed automatic transmission is said to shift smoothly, transferring power to a limited slip differential. The car recently received new belts and fluid changes and systems are evaluated in the condition report.

New shocks are fitted and the car stops straight with good brake pedal feel. Steel wheels with hubcaps are wrapped with newer14” Uniroyal Tiger Paw whitewall rubber added 4k miles ago in 2014.

During the sellers mechanical refurbish, he added new sub-frame mounts, new rear rotors, pads, new axle seals, and did a 4-wheel alignment. A slight leak has been identified from the power steering box. Overall the underbody looks to be solid with some repairs made as seen in the gallery below.

The sale includes a good spare, jack, tool roll, MB wool carpet mats, original owner’s manual, delivery manuals, build card, original service book with owner’s plate and clean Ohio title.