1977 MERCEDES-BENZ (W116) 280 S

KEY FACTS

• A highly original example of the first official ‘S-Class’, which remains in smart condition.
• Under the bonnet is the fuel-injected 2.8-litre ‘M110’ straight-six, producing around 160bhp and driving the rear wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission.
• First registered in 1977 and owned by the same family from new, this 280 S has been regularly serviced throughout its life, and has been kept in a covered garage when not in use.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• Introduced in 1972, the Friedrich Geiger-designed W116 generation Mercedes-Benz was the first to be officially referred to as the ‘S-Class’, laying the groundwork for what is still the marque’s most luxurious and advanced model.
• Finished in its charming original hue of Aqua Blue, this 280 S features a blue ‘MB Tex’ vinyl-trimmed cabin accented by handsome wood trim, and is equipped with an electric sunroof and a period-correct Blaupunkt
• Its 14-inch wheels are fitted with polished trims with body-coloured centres, which are flaking and would benefit from refurbishment or replacement.
• The car will be accompanied by paperwork detailing its recent service history, as well as a non-original tool kit.

CONDITION

• The vendor notes that the car has previously suffered from bodywork damage, but this was professionally repaired.
• The Aqua Blue paintwork has been resprayed in the past and presents well overall, with various small blemishes and scuffs around the car, in line with its use and mileage.
• Its exterior trim is in good order, though the brightwork has dulled slightly with age.
• The interior is in excellent condition, with only minor marks and scratches on the steering column and on the wood veneer trim, which do not detract from the cabin’s impressive overall appearance.
• There are no known faults with the controls or other electrical items.
• The car’s last roadworthiness test was conducted earlier this year, which it passed without any warnings or recommendations.

SERVICE HISTORY

• This 280 S’ most recent routine maintenance was a general service, which was carried out in July 2021 at 237,350km by marque specialist MKB in Greece.
• Prior to this, the car was serviced regularly on behalf of the same family, and the drive belt was last changed in 2018.

SUMMARY

This Mercedes-Benz 280 S is a handsome and generally well-preserved example of the classic luxury saloon car. Owned by the same family for 44 years and presented in its original specification, this W116-generation S-Class is a testament to the marque’s renowned build quality, and should prove to be a reliable companion for many more years to come.

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