
The 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SEL with 5-speed manual transmission was one of the rarest and most sought-after variants for performance enthusiasts in Europe. Unlike the standard 4-speed gearbox, the 5-speed option (ZF) offered closer ratios and a fifth “overdrive” gear that lowered engine laps on the highway, improving serenity and consumption. The vehicle is powered by the legendary M130 E28 engine with mechanical injection Bosch , which produces 160 hp / 158 HP / 117.5 kW . The extended SEL chassis (W108.019) offered maximum luxury without the complexity of air suspension, making this model a perfect cruiser that combined S-class comfort with a sporty steering feel thanks to the rare gearbox.