Rarity

[Martin280s]

This car has caused quite a stir on the Brazilian forum. Some, those who know, say its rare and others who prefer 'rare' 107 convertibles say it's commonplace...I don't need to explain to this crowd!

http://produto.mercadolivre.com.br/MLB-100239929-mercedes-benz-350-sel-_JM

 

[Styria]

This car has caused quite a stir on the Brazilian forum. Some, those who know, say its rare and others who prefer 'rare' 107 convertibles say it's commonplace...I don't need to explain to this crowd!

http://produto.mercadolivre.com.br/MLB-100239929-mercedes-benz-350-sel-_JM

Hi Martin 280S, I don't know what the asking price translates to Australian dollars and, of course, there aren't too many pictures to have a look at in order to try and assess the car's condition.

However, it is fair to say that a long wheelbase 350SEL that it is, can be considered to be the rarest (I think) of all 116s. I knew of one locally that was in beautiful condition (Silver Green), but the owner died some eighteen months to two years ago and I have no knowledge of that car's whereabouts. But, it would have been a marvellous purchase. Regards Styria

 

[450SE]

Quite a smart looking car.
Can anybody tell me:
The second last image (interior of rear compartment) - there is some sort of vertical strap on the rear of each of the front seats... What is it for & does it look to be a factory option or some clever aftermarket doovalackey?

 

[Lukas]

Can anybody tell me:
The second last image (interior of rear compartment) - there is some sort of vertical strap on the rear of each of the front seats... What is it for & does it look to be a factory option or some clever aftermarket doovalackey?

I too would like to know about the strap. Hat holder? Child holder?

Price is about AU$16k. Wikipedia says 350SELs are rarer than 6.9s. Slower though

 

[Michel]

Wikipedia says 350SELs are rarer than 6.9s. Slower though

Wiki is right.....

but which one is more sought after?

 

[Martin280s]

There were only 4,266 350 SELs against 7,3xx 6.9s. In fact the 280SEL is rarer than the 6.9 by being just over 7,000 produced and only one of those in 1973!

The straps behind the seat are not unfamiliar, as too their function I can only guess...maybe to hold rolled up coats?

The price is around US$14,000. If I had the cash I would snap it up!!!

 

[Styria]

I have driven 350s in 109 and 108 chassis configurations and there is no way that they even look like holding a candle to 6.9s - never mind the rarity. One would soon get frustrated with 2.8 or 3.5 liters.

However, if it came to having to exercise an option between 280SEL and 350SEL, the choice (on my part) would be clear - the V8 engined car anytime. That is not to denigrate the 2.8 liter engine as it is robust and can really wind up - especially in twin cam configuration. I'll have the 6.9er. Regards Styria

 

[Martin280s]

I have driven 350s in 109 and 108 chassis configurations and there is no way that they even look like holding a candle to 6.9s - never mind the rarity. One would soon get frustrated with 2.8 or 3.5 liters.

However, if it came to having to exercise an option between 280SEL and 350SEL, the choice (on my part) would be clear - the V8 engined car anytime. That is not to denigrate the 2.8 liter engine as it is robust and can really wind up - especially in twin cam configuration. I'll have the 6.9er. Regards Styria

You're right Styria, I had a 2.8lt W108 and it was torquey but slow, in contrast the 2.8lt M110 is revvy and when it winds up really gets going. 100mph comes so easily on the highway and a lighter front end helps around the twisty bits too. I've only had one V8 and it was a gas-guzzling Ford