There are few cars with a design like the W111/W112 series from Mercedes‑Benz. The 280SE Cabriolet is a superb Paul Bracq design: he transformed the “Heckflosse” grand saloon into an elegant, timeless coupe and cabriolet that remain design masterpieces.

While the coupe is often called one of the most elegant Mercedes‑Benz models ever produced, the cabriolet is just as beautiful and even more enjoyable to drive. With the windows down and some good music playing, the open‑top experience lets you fully appreciate your surroundings.

This particular 280SE Cabriolet was delivered new to bestselling poet and Academy Award–nominated singer‑songwriter Rod McKuen, who drove the car until his passing in 2015. Along with his 250SL Pagode, the 280SE came to the Netherlands and was meticulously restored by a Mercedes‑Benz specialist. During restoration the car was repainted in its current cherry red metallic with a cream interior and top; original delivery records and early photos show it was first finished in silver with a black interior.

Despite the color change, the restoration was carried out with exceptional attention to detail — the car presents very well and looks as if it just left the factory. If you’re searching for a four‑person convertible to enjoy for generations, the W111 is, in our opinion, a model that will never go out of style. Take it for a drive and you’ll receive many smiles and thumbs‑up along the way; a modern Mercedes‑Benz cabriolet simply can’t achieve that same charm.

If you would like more information about this Mercedes‑Benz, please call us — we’ll be happy to provide full details.