Уважение хозяину этого авто! Это так здорово, что человек в возрасте имеет возможность заниматься любимым делом и получать от этого удовольствие, да и ещё в таком прекрасном месте!
These Mercedes cars were made to last decades if well maintained, but modern plastic Mercedes cars are only made to last 6 years and then their so called electronic system starts to break down on it's own . Watching you drive your classic Mercedes makes me feel it's a very comfortable and relaxing car to drive. A very big 👍 from Lebanon!
Thank you so much Ken. It was so amazing for me to watch your very laxurius Mercedes-Benz car built so long ago. In 1973 I was only 8 years of age and now this is really a wonderful moment for me watching your lovely car drive. Love you so much, Ken.
Thank you for watching and taking your time to comment. Yes, they are "forever cars" as long as one keeps up with maintenance and repairs as the engineers intended.
Thank you. Love that Benz! I drive a CLK32O 2002! I'M 71 yrs young and my Benz is still a chick magnet! My philosophy has always been, "The Best Or Nothing"! So true! The best is still to come! Thank you! JC
Yes, indeed. We are the same age and I do get lots of friendly waves and comments while out and about. The best advertisement slogan from Mercedes was for the W123 chassis. It said, "All cars fall apart sooner or later, ours fall apart later." Thank you for watching and taking your time to comment.
I owned a 280 SE 4.5 in Boston in the mid 1980's (Mercedes had just transitioned to mfg the 500 SEL flagship, following the 450 SEL). The car was Burgundy with a tan leather interior (not tex leather). It was an absolute blast to drive longer distances. I clearly recall the amount of torque the engine delivered. Letting your foot off the gas was akin to braking in a modern car.This car had an enormous sunroof, AC, power windows, a lovely sound system and radar detectors! Beautiful example you have, it brings back memories of taking 500 mile cruises on a whim with other musicians.😎. These cars truly need to be driven... it's almost sad to see them as museum/garage exhibits today - but scarcity will do that. The W108 and W109 were pure class and the 4.5 carved it's own niche.
Indeed! Thank you for watching and your lovely comments. This is my second 1972 280 SE 4.5 I've owned. The first one I purchased as a used car in 1982 with 100,000 miles on it. I used it as my everyday car for 20 years and had to let her go in 2002 due to terminal rust. I had put an additional 200,000 miles on it. I always wanted another one and now I have this one.
Hi ken I 've watched all your videos now, I saw the sad black 1960 300 D series, what a shame. I'm in my late '60's, & as a kid in the 1950's my paternal grandad had an odd color green 1956 300 C series a little darker than your 4.5 and with deep tan leather seats. He was suspicious of the early automatics so ordered his new as a manual. Owned and used by him until he passed away, then bought by an uncle of mine. My dad was into planes & had two Cesena's instead. My mum's dad had bought himself a new Packard Patrician also in 1956 and equally suspicious of auto box's Pa ordered his as a manual as well. As a kid the Studebaker-Packard dealers here in Australia also sold Mercedes Benz. Again, a lovely video.
Fabulous car ! - This has got to be the best looked after 280SE 4.5 in the world - This car is a real credit to it's current owner - Well done, Great video ! 👍
Thank you very much for your kindness and for watching my video. It took me about 1-year (off and on) to get the ignition system and D-Jetronic fuel injection systems to work well. This was after I installed a new stainless steel exhaust system, new Bilstein shocks and a new steering damper. I also had to do some work on the interior and exterior lights, fix the glove box door, and fix the vacuum operated automatic door lock system. Now the cart has no issues. There are other videos on my channel documenting some of this work. Now the car is fabulous.
@@kensshowtell You're most welcome - Wow - You did a lot of work on this car and it now looks outstanding ! - I have a 2010 w212 Mercedes E63 and apart from doing an oil and coolant change earlier this year as well as cleaning the air filters on the big 6.2 m156 engine I haven't got round to doing anything else !... No matter what model - If it's a Mercedes it will last forever if well cared for and looked after - Your car is a masterpiece - All the very Best of luck in all you do. Best Regards, Joseph, UK.
I bought a new 1972 280SEL 4.5 dark green, black interior with sunroof from Carwell Corp in Hermosa Beach, CA. Such a solid, wonderful, reliable motorcar. Being 6'4", the L gave rear seat passengers plenty of room. I sold it myself & purchased a new late 1974 450SL. Beautiful SE, Prost!
Thank you for watching and your lovely comment. This is the second 1972 280 SE 4.5 I've owned. The first one was white with blue interior I bought with 100,000 miles in 1982 as "just a used car." It was my every-day car for 20 years and had to finally let it go due to terminal rust. I put an additional 300,000 miles on it with no issues at all with regular maintenance. I've always wanted another one, hence the purchase of this one. I hope you still have your 1974 450SL.
I bought a similar used 280 SE 4.5 in light metallic blue from a Mercedes dealer back in the ‘80’s. A fantastic car! For a large car, it handled very sporty. I wasn’t earning much back then and it became expensive for upkeep, so sadly I sold it.
Thank you for watching and taking your time to comment. Yes. In 1982 I bought a 1972 280 SE 4.5 in dove white over blue MB-Tex with 100,000 miles on it. It needed new valve guides and seals, so I had that work done. I drove it till 2002 (20-years) as my everyday car and added 300,000 miles. I only passed it on due to terminal rust. It never broke down and only required regular maintenance which I did myself. The one in the video is my second one, however, it is for pleasure only. I always wanted another one.
Very nice car in almost mint condition, congrats! 4.5 was not available in Europe as far as I know, so it should be the most desirable engine displacement! At that time you bought your car I decided to looking for the successor the W116. After 6 month intensive market investigation in 2022 I bought a nice 1. hand 6.9 and I am as happy as you are! Regards from Germany.
Thank you for watching and your lovely comment. Yes, the 4.5-liter engine (M117) was not available in Europe as it was made for USA only. It is a bored out 3.5-liter engine (M116) with lower compression producing the same power at lower RPM and runs on lower octane fuel. Congratulations on our find. You should do a video and post it on your channel, if you have not already done so. I'll check and see.
Realmente foi um lindo passeio; a sensação de segurança com 4.5 L nesse 280 SE tranquiliza qualquer "carona" quando conduzido pelo seu zelo e em um vídeo tão bem elaborado! Parabéns por todo conjunto da obra!🇧🇷
@@kensshowtell Не обижайтесь, просто не люблю Мерседесы.. не поворотливые, не резвые, большой (при этом не практичный для перевозки как хэтчбек) и не удобный для проковки, дороже некоторых Авто в обслуживании.. ещё и бензин.. и не важно в каком он состоянии, не хотел никого обидеть, выразил своё личное мнение.. простите если обидел.. я уважаю мнение других людей, просто вырвалось это слово, по итогу эксплуатации многих Авто за 30 лет..
Hello ! I'm following you from Romania! Your car is SUPERB, very well maintained! I really like ! I wish I could see a car manufactured now, how it will be after 50 years!
Thank you for watching and for taking your time to comment. I think the primary difference is that these old Mercedes were built as forever cars as long as they were maintained. New cars are considered disposable.
@@kensshowtell Thank you for excellent movie and replying content. This car attracted my attention and became beloved by me when i was a child and tripped with parents in Bulgaria in 80s.
@@tenyudonkov Interesting. I first became aware of the Mercedes 280 SE 4.5 in 1982 when I purchased a 1972 280 SE 4.5 with 100,000 miles. I drove it as my everyday car from 1982 till 2002 (20 years) and put 300,000 miles on it. I had to let it go due to terminal rust. That is why I have my current one.
@@kensshowtell Such Mercedes cars of that age have special picularity and feature. Besides this, I was excited by understanding that your region had changed a little. Cool nature, good roads and calm situation. My congratulations.
Мой последний авто в совке. Купил его в 1990. ЕДИНСТВЕННЫЙ на ходу в Ленинграде!!!!! Он изменил мне всё! Походку, разговор. НЕТ СТАРОГО МЕРСА! ЕССТЬ МЕРС!!!!
Thank you for watching and taking your time to make your lovely comments! I agree with you totally. My wife has a 2013 C300 Luxury 4-matic and it is wonderful in-terms-of handling, ride, and comfort. However, it won't be around in 52 years.
Thank you. 👍🏻🏴🇬🇧 Beautiful scenery ( found your route on Google Maps). Lovely vehicle.They rusted here due to salt. I’ve kept our W201 from new and our W212 estate as that is well-built and un encumbered with today’s unnecessary electronics.
Thank you for watching and your lovely comments. My first W108 was a 1972 280 SE 4.5 I purchased in 1982 and drove till 2002 (20 years). I put an additional 200,000 miles on the existing 100,000 miles the car already had since I bought it used. The only reason I had to give it up was because of terminal rust. Never let me down, bullet proof. That is why I have this one.
@@kensshowtell Thank you. We have a couple of houses in country areas near to National Parks in Northern England one close to the North Sea. The W201 190E being narrower like older cars ( My Volvo 850 Estate included) they are nicer to drive on narrow roads. Here hous are constructed of stone or brick. The timber houses in Virginia reminded me of the similar ones in Sweden and Norway where we used to take the Volvo. It’s the unrepairable printed circuitry that shortens the life of modern vehicles. Fortunately the simple circuitry of the E.C.U. on the 190 was repairable Just when manufacturers conquered the rust problem they engineered built-in obsolescence with the digital electronics. Here ALL new combustion engined cars will be banned as from 2030 . Another scam. 👍🏻🇺🇸
@@Backwardlooking The drivers of pick-up trucks and SUVs don't know how to stay on their side of the road as they are so large. I prefer analog cars too. With the W108/109, W123 cars Mercedes built the "forever car" as long as one kept up with maintenance and repairs. Even rust.
When someone asks me, what's my favorite w108 color? I think of your Car every time Ken. You are very lucky to own such a beauty, that's true. But the car is extremely lucky to have you as its owner. Great Video Ken. Cheers John.
Thank you for watching and commenting. The color of this car does fit its timeframe. My wife thinks the car was originally ordered by a woman as the interior and exterior color combination shows taste rather than convention. I have a white with blue interior 1971 W108 280SEand a black with red interior W111. Very conventional color combinations and I know both these cars were originally ordered by men. Interesting. @@persereika7401
Very nice report. Nice to see the area where you live 👍🏼 When I was a Youngster this Mercedes was unaffordable for average persons. Greatings from lake constance in Germany 😉
Yes, this W108 280 4.5 was around $7,000.00 in the USA in 1971 and 1972. Therefore, very expensive. However, they were built as "forever" cars and meant to be owned a lifetime with proper maintenance and repairs. I bet where you live is beautiful too. Thank you for watching.
He had this car but In black. I could drive all the cars but this one!!,that’s when I fell in love with the earlier 70s models, love the Co Co mats,I think I’ll get some for my 750IL
If there would be a title of a Supreme Masterpiece of multi Art and Design of all sectors and all times -the MB280se of the late 60's + the early 70's should win it very easily.
What a beast, and yet so elegant. The only thing that tops it might be the coupe version. And perhaps a remark in general: it would be SOOO much more rewarding to hear the car sounds and the driving experience over that silly subway music.
I just love your content... Im hopefully picking up my 1970 280SE 6cyl next week to start my own project. This channel will be a great source of information! How's the white 280 going? cant wait to see the work done at the vinyl shop!
You are too kind. I really appreciate your comments. Thank you for subscribing too. Take a look at my channel as I've just published video #2 on that project.
@@darkangel15joao He picked up the car in October/November 2022 and the last video was done last week of February 2023. He hopes to be finished in August of 2023. However, we will see. Yes, when I made my first visit I was impressed with the cleanliness of his shop and the quality of work I saw on other cars.
A beautiful car. I have not finished watching the video in its entirety, but do the Hella horns sound like that old and unique Mercedes horn? I love the sound of old Mercedes horns, very exclusive and unique!
I fell in love with the color. I've since had several folks send me pictures of their cars in that color. Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment.
Beautiful Benz! I live in Roanoke Va and that looks like a great drive, what road are you on? I would love to take my Mercedes R129 SL 500 down that road.
Thank you for watching and your lovely comment. They are different county roads between Lexington and Middlebrook west if I-81 and US 11, centering on VA 252 (Middlebrook Road).
@@jamesreckling6697 For you, I would come up to Lexington from Roanoke on US 11. Just as you pass the intersections for I-81 and I-64 turn left onto VA-39. Head towards Goshen but don't go there because you are looking for VA 252 off to your right and take that all the way to Middlebrook or Staunton. Maybe you could visit this Spring on your drive?
Great video Ken of this 1973 Mercedes-Benz W108 it is amazing How you look after all of your Classic Cars How do you keep them so Clean and How to you clean all of the Classic Mercedes Benz Cars and will They be a Future Video Of How you Keep all of your Classic Car clean and shiny? They is not so many Videos of how to keep an classic car clean and shiny like how you keep them clean Ken keep with the Good Work Ken👍and you are one of the best people out there Ken who Really enjoys They classic cars and Show us on UA-cam 👍 and also the United Kingdom had the Northern Lights Last Night In Southern England The Part I live it is quite rare for us in the South East
Thank you very much for your very kind comments. With regards to keeping my cars clean all I do is just keep up with them. Unless I'm caught out by accident, I try not to drive them when the roads are wet. After each drive I go over the car with a "California Duster" and clean off any bugs or anything else (smudges, etc.) that has gotten on the car with a very mild window cleaner and a lint-free cloth like micro-fiber cloth. It only takes a few minutes and keeps the car clean for the next drive. I also use a "Spray & Shine" like product in between washes and waxes. I try not to rub the paint with a dry cloth as that causes swirl marks and scratches. They stay inside my Autohouse under car covers ready for the next drive. We were supposed to see the Northern Lights last night. However, I was enjoying a campfire and whiskey, with my cat and I forgot. I will definitely look tonight.
@@kensshowtell Thank you Ken for Telling me about how you keep your Classic Cars All clean and the northern lights was Great to see them It was My First Time seeing them ever and hope to see some more sometime in the near future Good luck with seeing them Tonight Ken Hopefully you will see them And hopefully you will get some Great Pictures ,Videos of the Northern Lights I took A few pictures But I only Got One Very Good Picture Of the Northern Lights I all Ways Wondered what the Northern Lights are like In your part of the World Ken Good luck with seeing Them Later On Tonight Ken 🤞
@@kensshowtell I NOW first looked at yr other uploads…. You did put that little bit of umpf extra on the car without taking away the period feeling. Way to often the soulless alloy wheels are put on… I don’t know many brands of cars that have exterior colors on the hubcaps it connects the wheels visually. You have done some work that was obviously a labor of ❤️love ❤️ . Wishing you many happy hours together with that AWESOME time capsule 🍀🙏🏽
Yes. However, it is actually not black but caramel in color. Engine oil turning from light to dark is a good sign as it is doing its job. Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment.
Thank you for watching. I was fortunate to find it locally and that it is such good condition cosmetically. All I had to do was attend to some mechanical issues that developed due to time and benign neglect by the previous owner.
Espetáculo!!! Enor Soldatelli, de Vacaria, cidade do interior do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil, era proprietário de uma Mercedes-Benz idêntica à relíquia deste vídeo, só que movida a óleo diesel… 👏👏👏👏👏👏
@@kensshowtell I don’t remember which Mercedes model I’m referring to. Maybe it was a 240D, but the design was very similar to the model in the video. Sorri if You don’t understand my English. Thank You very much for contacting us and a big hug!
@@jacquesneto4720 Huggs are good, and your English is much better than my Portuguese. I bet you are remembering the W115 Chassis with the 2.4-liter diesel. It was very slow with only about 70 HP compared to my W108 280 SE 4.5 with 200 HP. Built like a tank.
It would be cute to call it Algae green or Sherbet. I'm sure it's something more dignified. That car is in exceptional condition. It is commendable that you keep it very close to original.
@@beryllium1932 I have the color code but have not bothered to find out what the actual name of the color is. I could see through the years of neglect and grime the gem underneath. The car has been fortunate in that it has passed through those who have not molested it.
@@kensshowtell I'm surprised that we all Mercedes nerds don't know it! Back in the late-1970s when, as a rural country child, I had no idea how many people were obsessed by the marque, it's design language and conservation. In the video, you were unhooking the tender from the "German-made battery." I knew you were a good purist!
@@beryllium1932 In all honesty, it is an American brand battery (Autocraft) made in Germany that was already in the car. I need to check the date on it (if it has one) to see how old it is. It is really heavy, continues to crank the engine well, so I know it is a good one.
Yes. Fortunately for me it was done at some point in the past by an unknown previous owner. That's how I like to buy them. Thanks for watching and taking your time to comment.
Thank you for watching. I did warm up the engine before driving. I did not want to waste video time showing this. So, after starting the engine I edited out the idle time for warming up.
Unless this car was modified it does not have a standard torque converter. Originally these cars have a robust pump driven four speed Daimler Benz transmission.
Thank you for watching. Sorry, you are incorrect. The 6-cylinder W108 cars had what you describe. All the 4.5 V-8 W108 cars were built for the USA market only and had 3-speed torque converter driven automatics.
@@kensshowtell Thanks for explaining this. I'm aware that the W116 6.9 liter model had a 3 Speed BW transmission and the large engine was de-tuned to comply with US emission regulations. I have owned a W100 and a W109 6.3 and still own a W111 3.5 Coupe here in Australia. An acquaintance who owns a W111 3.5 cabriolet, imported from California, asked once asked me if he could drive my coupe to see how the two compared. He could not believe the difference in power between the two cars (same engine...?) His cabriolet had the US detuned engine and the difference in torque etc was remarkable. I think that the factory fitted the 4.5 liter engine to the W108 4.5 because the 3.5 (US compliance) engine just did not cut it in America.
@@helmuthhaass3631 That is correct. Also, Mercedes needed to compete in the V-8 luxury segment of the US market with something different than the 6.3 V-8. The US version of the M117 V-8 engine was the bored out M116 (3.5 V-8) with the compression lowered to meet emission standards and they produced the same HP (200 HP) and torque. However, the US version (4.5) was lower revving and more laid back. The California cars had less power due to more emission controls. The rest of the US got the 4.5 V-8 without the emission controls.
Mercedes Benz, don't make them like this anymore, this is when they make good cars. These cars were made to last. Today they wear the name and that is all.
Very true. This was a time when luxury was measured by quality of materials and engineering excellence. Thank you for watching and your lovely comment.
Уважение хозяину этого авто!
Это так здорово, что человек в возрасте имеет возможность заниматься любимым делом и получать от этого удовольствие, да и ещё в таком прекрасном месте!
You are very kind. Thank you for watching and taking your time to comment.
These Mercedes cars were made to last decades if well maintained, but modern plastic Mercedes cars are only made to last 6 years and then their so called electronic system starts to break down on it's own . Watching you drive your classic Mercedes makes me feel it's a very comfortable and relaxing car to drive. A very big 👍 from Lebanon!
Thank you for your very kind remarks. This car is indeed fun and relaxing to drive.
You're right brother 💯💯💯💯👌🙏❤
@@Stephaneholyfield Thank you for your support and your wonderful comment.
Thank you so much Ken.
It was so amazing for me to watch your very laxurius Mercedes-Benz car built so long ago. In 1973 I was only 8 years of age and now this is really a wonderful moment for me watching your lovely car drive.
Love you so much, Ken.
Thank you for watching and your lovely comments.
Респект этому старому человеку, который сохранил такую легендарную машину в отличном состоянии. Это не машина, а сказка👍👍👍
Спасибо вам мил человек)
I am so happy that you think I'm a nice man. You have made my day. Thank you for watching and your lovely comment.
Ken , I enjoy seeing these old Mercedes very much. The 60s and 70s are my favorites. Build them great and they stay great.
Thank you for watching and taking your time to comment. Yes, they are "forever cars" as long as one keeps up with maintenance and repairs as the engineers intended.
Thank you. Love that Benz!
I drive a CLK32O 2002!
I'M 71 yrs young and my Benz is still a chick magnet! My philosophy has always been, "The Best Or Nothing"! So true!
The best is still to come! Thank you! JC
Yes, indeed. We are the same age and I do get lots of friendly waves and comments while out and about. The best advertisement slogan from Mercedes was for the W123 chassis. It said, "All cars fall apart sooner or later, ours fall apart later." Thank you for watching and taking your time to comment.
I owned a 280 SE 4.5 in Boston in the mid 1980's (Mercedes had just transitioned to mfg the 500 SEL flagship, following the 450 SEL). The car was Burgundy with a tan leather interior (not tex leather). It was an absolute blast to drive longer distances. I clearly recall the amount of torque the engine delivered. Letting your foot off the gas was akin to braking in a modern car.This car had an enormous sunroof, AC, power windows, a lovely sound system and radar detectors! Beautiful example you have, it brings back memories of taking 500 mile cruises on a whim with other musicians.😎. These cars truly need to be driven... it's almost sad to see them as museum/garage exhibits today - but scarcity will do that. The W108 and W109 were pure class and the 4.5 carved it's own niche.
Indeed! Thank you for watching and your lovely comments. This is my second 1972 280 SE 4.5 I've owned. The first one I purchased as a used car in 1982 with 100,000 miles on it. I used it as my everyday car for 20 years and had to let her go in 2002 due to terminal rust. I had put an additional 200,000 miles on it. I always wanted another one and now I have this one.
That is a beautiful example and you must be very proud.
Thank you for watching and your lovely comment. I feel privileged to be its current caretaker and be the one who has made it road worthy again.
Именно эта модель мне очень нравится!👍
Вы молодец, что так бережно относитесь к автомобилю!🙂👍
Me too. I try to be careful with it and enjoy it at the same time. Thank you for watching.
@@kensshowtell ,👍
Особое уважение деду хозяина этой красавицы салам из Таджикистана 👍👍👍
You are too kind. Thank you for watching and commenting.
Hi ken I 've watched all your videos now, I saw the sad black 1960 300 D series, what a shame. I'm in my late '60's, & as a kid in the 1950's my paternal grandad had an odd color green 1956 300 C series a little darker than your 4.5 and with deep tan leather seats. He was suspicious of the early automatics so ordered his new as a manual. Owned and used by him until he passed away, then bought by an uncle of mine. My dad was into planes & had two Cesena's instead. My mum's dad had bought himself a new Packard Patrician also in 1956 and equally suspicious of auto box's Pa ordered his as a manual as well. As a kid the Studebaker-Packard dealers here in Australia also sold Mercedes Benz. Again, a lovely video.
Wow! Thank you for watching and for your lovely comments. That sad 300D sold for $25,000! Too much time and financial commitment for me.
Fabulous car ! - This has got to be the best looked after 280SE 4.5 in the world - This car is a real credit to it's current owner - Well done, Great video ! 👍
Thank you very much for your kindness and for watching my video. It took me about 1-year (off and on) to get the ignition system and D-Jetronic fuel injection systems to work well. This was after I installed a new stainless steel exhaust system, new Bilstein shocks and a new steering damper. I also had to do some work on the interior and exterior lights, fix the glove box door, and fix the vacuum operated automatic door lock system. Now the cart has no issues. There are other videos on my channel documenting some of this work. Now the car is fabulous.
@@kensshowtell You're most welcome - Wow - You did a lot of work on this car and it now looks outstanding ! - I have a 2010 w212 Mercedes E63 and apart from doing an oil and coolant change earlier this year as well as cleaning the air filters on the big 6.2 m156 engine I haven't got round to doing anything else !... No matter what model - If it's a Mercedes it will last forever if well cared for and looked after - Your car is a masterpiece - All the very Best of luck in all you do. Best Regards, Joseph, UK.
Lovely, classic Mercedes. My half-brother had one of those. 280 SE 4.5 litre 1973 that he had imported from the US. But it was blue.
Its a rare car the 4.5 from 72 73,200 hp
280se, great car
People with a brain drive a star, ding dong, thats a car
Interesting. thanks for watching and commenting.
@@ap6878 Well, actually 190-200 HP. The praise is appreciated.
Wow. It's new! Beautiful. That was a MERCEDES. I love these old MERCEDES!
Thank you for watching and your lovely comment. I really do enjoy that car.
Yes the over under headlight and that grille beautiful
@@krwd Thank you for your lovely comment and for watching.
I bought a new 1972 280SEL 4.5 dark green, black interior with sunroof from Carwell Corp in Hermosa Beach, CA. Such a solid, wonderful, reliable motorcar. Being 6'4", the L gave rear seat passengers plenty of room. I sold it myself & purchased a new late 1974 450SL. Beautiful SE, Prost!
Thank you for watching and your lovely comment. This is the second 1972 280 SE 4.5 I've owned. The first one was white with blue interior I bought with 100,000 miles in 1982 as "just a used car." It was my every-day car for 20 years and had to finally let it go due to terminal rust. I put an additional 300,000 miles on it with no issues at all with regular maintenance. I've always wanted another one, hence the purchase of this one. I hope you still have your 1974 450SL.
@@kensshowtell Unfortunately not, enjoyed many years, but forced to purchase a MBZ sedan due to children. Owned many MBZ's throughout the years.
Аксакал, дай Бог вам здоровья и долгих лет счастливой жизни 👏👏👏👍🙋♂️🇰🇿🇰🇿🇰🇿🇰🇿🇰🇿
Really! You are too kind. Thank you for watching and your lovely comment.
Да хранит тебя и твою семью Аллах
And protect you and yours too.
time capsule absolutely beautiful pristine condition 72 no rattles smooth driving
Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment.
I bought a similar used 280 SE 4.5 in light metallic blue from a Mercedes dealer back in the ‘80’s. A fantastic car! For a large car, it handled very sporty. I wasn’t earning much back then and it became expensive for upkeep, so sadly I sold it.
Thank you for watching and taking your time to comment. Yes. In 1982 I bought a 1972 280 SE 4.5 in dove white over blue MB-Tex with 100,000 miles on it. It needed new valve guides and seals, so I had that work done. I drove it till 2002 (20-years) as my everyday car and added 300,000 miles. I only passed it on due to terminal rust. It never broke down and only required regular maintenance which I did myself. The one in the video is my second one, however, it is for pleasure only. I always wanted another one.
Very nice car in almost mint condition, congrats! 4.5 was not available in Europe as far as I know, so it should be the most desirable engine displacement! At that time you bought your car I decided to looking for the successor the W116. After 6 month intensive market investigation in 2022 I bought a nice 1. hand 6.9 and I am as happy as you are! Regards from Germany.
Thank you for watching and your lovely comment. Yes, the 4.5-liter engine (M117) was not available in Europe as it was made for USA only. It is a bored out 3.5-liter engine (M116) with lower compression producing the same power at lower RPM and runs on lower octane fuel. Congratulations on our find. You should do a video and post it on your channel, if you have not already done so. I'll check and see.
OMG perfect ...this is how cars should always be built....thank toy so much in sharing
Thank you very much for watching, Roger.
Realmente foi um lindo passeio; a sensação de segurança com 4.5 L nesse 280 SE tranquiliza qualquer "carona" quando conduzido pelo seu zelo e em um vídeo tão bem elaborado!
Parabéns por todo conjunto da obra!🇧🇷
Wow! Thank you very much for your lovely comment and for watching.
Super Classic MB the color scheme was so on point back then during that era Pine Green exterior on a light or cream beige leather interior.
Yes, I find the combination very refreshing today. Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment.
Beautiful. My dad a few late seventies and early eighties MBs. Such great memories
Wonderful. I'm happy the video helped in stirring those great memories. Thank you for watching and your lovely comment.
Говно
@@pilitegiri3226 Guvno? Maybe it is a bad translation. Thank you for watching.
@@kensshowtell Не обижайтесь, просто не люблю Мерседесы.. не поворотливые, не резвые, большой (при этом не практичный для перевозки как хэтчбек) и не удобный для проковки, дороже некоторых Авто в обслуживании.. ещё и бензин.. и не важно в каком он состоянии, не хотел никого обидеть, выразил своё личное мнение.. простите если обидел.. я уважаю мнение других людей, просто вырвалось это слово, по итогу эксплуатации многих Авто за 30 лет..
@@pilitegiri3226 I see. Thank you for the clarification. Not everyone likes Mercedes. I was not offended, just lost in the translation.
Hello ! I'm following you from Romania! Your car is SUPERB, very well maintained! I really like ! I wish I could see a car manufactured now, how it will be after 50 years!
Thank you for watching and for taking your time to comment. I think the primary difference is that these old Mercedes were built as forever cars as long as they were maintained. New cars are considered disposable.
This car is also a masterpiece as Me262 Schwalbe. The car has beautiful colour.
I agree. Thank you for your lovely comment and for watching.
@@kensshowtell Thank you for excellent movie and replying content. This car attracted my attention and became beloved by me when i was a child and tripped with parents in Bulgaria in 80s.
@@tenyudonkov Interesting. I first became aware of the Mercedes 280 SE 4.5 in 1982 when I purchased a 1972 280 SE 4.5 with 100,000 miles. I drove it as my everyday car from 1982 till 2002 (20 years) and put 300,000 miles on it. I had to let it go due to terminal rust. That is why I have my current one.
@@kensshowtell Such Mercedes cars of that age have special picularity and feature. Besides this, I was excited by understanding that your region had changed a little. Cool nature, good roads and calm situation. My congratulations.
@@tenyudonkov Wow, wow, and wow again! Thank you for watching and taking your time to make these lovely comments.
Absolutely gorgeous car, and the color is great because it isn't ubiquitous!
I had not seen that color before. I really like the interior and exterior combination. Thank you for watching and your lovely comment.
Мой последний авто в совке. Купил его в 1990. ЕДИНСТВЕННЫЙ на ходу в Ленинграде!!!!! Он изменил мне всё! Походку, разговор. НЕТ СТАРОГО МЕРСА! ЕССТЬ МЕРС!!!!
Wow. You have the only one on the road in Leningrad? That's so cool. Thank you for watching and for your lovely comment.
Владелец просто красавчик что сохранил так автомобиль. Очень сильно уважаю людей которые относятся так к технике
You are very kind. Thank you for watching and commenting.
А когда он достал щуп, а там было свежее моторное масло, это многого стоит.
@@ВоваВова-ь3ч Yes, fresh engine oil is very important. Thank you for watching and for your lovely comment.
@@kensshowtell Your car is great and I'm glad it's in good hands, you're both lucky. Good luck to you and your car.
@@ВоваВова-ь3ч Yes, we are both lucky. Thank you for your very kind comment.
Ohh boy. EFI. 😊. Definitely nice ride.
The first is a family sedan. Thank you for watching.
Amazing car you have sir. None of the modern MB junk will last that long.
Thank you for watching and taking your time to make your lovely comments! I agree with you totally. My wife has a 2013 C300 Luxury 4-matic and it is wonderful in-terms-of handling, ride, and comfort. However, it won't be around in 52 years.
Thank you. 👍🏻🏴🇬🇧 Beautiful scenery ( found your route on Google Maps). Lovely vehicle.They rusted here due to salt. I’ve kept our W201 from new and our W212 estate as that is well-built and un encumbered with today’s unnecessary electronics.
Thank you for watching and your lovely comments. My first W108 was a 1972 280 SE 4.5 I purchased in 1982 and drove till 2002 (20 years). I put an additional 200,000 miles on the existing 100,000 miles the car already had since I bought it used. The only reason I had to give it up was because of terminal rust. Never let me down, bullet proof. That is why I have this one.
@@kensshowtell Thank you. We have a couple of houses in country areas near to National Parks in Northern England one close to the North Sea. The W201 190E being narrower like older cars ( My Volvo 850 Estate included) they are nicer to drive on narrow roads. Here hous are constructed of stone or brick. The timber houses in Virginia reminded me of the similar ones in Sweden and Norway where we used to take the Volvo. It’s the unrepairable printed circuitry that shortens the life of modern vehicles. Fortunately the simple circuitry of the E.C.U. on the 190 was repairable Just when manufacturers conquered the rust problem they engineered built-in obsolescence with the digital electronics. Here ALL new combustion engined cars will be banned as from 2030 . Another scam. 👍🏻🇺🇸
@@Backwardlooking The drivers of pick-up trucks and SUVs don't know how to stay on their side of the road as they are so large. I prefer analog cars too. With the W108/109, W123 cars Mercedes built the "forever car" as long as one kept up with maintenance and repairs. Even rust.
@@kensshowtell I totally agree and avoid certain roads for precisely that reason.
That is a beautiful w108! I had a 6.3 years ago which I miss dearly , the 280se much more practical.
Thank you for watching and commenting. The 6.3 cars really bring big money these days.
The 6.2 sucked
@@ap6878 I think you mean the 6.3-liter M100 engine.
Those old Mercedes are really nice. I like the dash and guages. The SL-380’s were popular.
The 380 SL cars (R107) were popular, and folks are re-discovering them today. Thank you for watching and for taking the time to comment.
When someone asks me, what's my favorite w108 color? I think of your Car every time Ken. You are very lucky to own such a beauty, that's true. But the car is extremely lucky to have you as its owner. Great Video Ken. Cheers John.
Wow! Thank you so much for watching and your wonderful comment. She is still going strong.
I personally like their blue or yellow so much more but this colour really fits to the time it was build in.
Thank you for watching and commenting. The color of this car does fit its timeframe. My wife thinks the car was originally ordered by a woman as the interior and exterior color combination shows taste rather than convention. I have a white with blue interior 1971 W108 280SEand a black with red interior W111. Very conventional color combinations and I know both these cars were originally ordered by men. Interesting. @@persereika7401
Very nice report. Nice to see the area where you live 👍🏼
When I was a Youngster this Mercedes was unaffordable for average persons.
Greatings from lake constance in Germany 😉
Yes, this W108 280 4.5 was around $7,000.00 in the USA in 1971 and 1972. Therefore, very expensive. However, they were built as "forever" cars and meant to be owned a lifetime with proper maintenance and repairs. I bet where you live is beautiful too. Thank you for watching.
Your car is amazing! Sounds fantastic and looks just as good
Thank you for watching and taking the time to make your lovely comments. I really like the new exhaust system I installed.
That's an outstanding car. I really like it. God bless.
Thank you for watching and your lovely comment.
Gute Fahrt ! Wunderbar Arbeit und Video 😊 Danke
Danke to you too. Thank you for watching and taking your time to comment.
Nice car, nice video!! greetings from Germany, Jens
Greetings to you too. Thank you for watching and taking your time to comment and say hello.
He had this car but In black. I could drive all the cars but this one!!,that’s when I fell in love with the earlier 70s models, love the Co Co mats,I think I’ll get some for my 750IL
Yes, Coco Coco Mats is a very good company to deal with. They are located just outside of Charleston, SC.
Amazing car , my favorite Mercedes !! 👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾
Thank you for watching and your lovely comment.
If there would be a title of a Supreme Masterpiece of multi Art and Design of all sectors and all times -the MB280se of the late 60's + the early 70's should win it very easily.
Absolutely. Thank you for watching and commenting.
You have some nice vehicles Ken.
Thank you for watching and lovely comment.
صنعت كي لا تفنى، انها مرسيدس بنز فخر الصناعة الالمانية والأوروبية والعالمية جمعاء ولا أحد يضاهيها مطلقا.
Thank you for watching. Yes, when engineering and style were synonymous.
My father had one green also. 280 se. Very nice.
I'm discovering that this color of green was not that rare back in the day. Thank you for watching.
DIESER TYP HAT WIRKLICH GESCHMACK WAS AUTO ANGEHT! SCHÖN V8 MERCEDES 👌🏻
Wow! Thank you for watching and your very kind remark.
speechless, positively stunning😊
Thank you for watching and your very kind comment. I'm very hapy with this car.
Stunning
Thank you for watching and for your kind comment.
Fantastic! 💖💖💖💖💖
Thank you for watching and your lovely comment.
one of the best cars from Germany !🙂
I have to agree.
I have the very same car,same color .thank-you for sharing
My pleasure and thank you for watching. Is your car the same color on the inside? I wonder how rare. these colors are?
My 280 has the same off white interior, has factory sunroof. It is my retirement project and is in very nice shape for a project. California vehicle.
I think that pea green was a bit popular back then.
@@allanbabcock9678 I see.
What a beast, and yet so elegant. The only thing that tops it might be the coupe version. And perhaps a remark in general: it would be SOOO much more rewarding to hear the car sounds and the driving experience over that silly subway music.
Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment.
Classic Mercedes cars are the best ever made German cars
Yes. The company was at the top of their game and regained their pre-war prowess in the 1960's, 1970's and 1980's. Thank you for watching.
Beautiful car!
Thank you for watching and your lovely comment.
Это произведение искуства 👍
I think so too. Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment.
Paul Bracq is a genius
Yes, he was. Thank you for watching and taking your time to comment.
Это тот самый дед, который ездил за молоком и только в солнечную погоду! ))))
Definitely the way it's done these days. Thanks for watching.
I just love your content... Im hopefully picking up my 1970 280SE 6cyl next week to start my own project. This channel will be a great source of information!
How's the white 280 going? cant wait to see the work done at the vinyl shop!
You are too kind. I really appreciate your comments. Thank you for subscribing too. Take a look at my channel as I've just published video #2 on that project.
@@kensshowtell How long is the preparation and wrap taking? The shop is being very meticulous on it. very nice.
@@darkangel15joao He picked up the car in October/November 2022 and the last video was done last week of February 2023. He hopes to be finished in August of 2023. However, we will see. Yes, when I made my first visit I was impressed with the cleanliness of his shop and the quality of work I saw on other cars.
Divinooooooo todavía eran Mercedes Benz!
Thanks for watching.
Love the parchment interior. What does Mercedes call that shade of green? My beloved 280SE 3.5 coupe was repainted moss green, which is also lovely.
Thank you for watching and your lovely comments. I don't know what the color name is and I love it too.
@@kensshowtell If I had the VIN or color code or photo of the VIN tag in front of the radiator I could tell.
Thank you. I know what number to look for I just have not done so.@@astrasfo
Hello great vid! I believe the color is called Caledonia Green.
Thank you for watching and being encouraging. Caledonia Green. I like it.@@Burton7997
Great car, i have the 190e 2.6 from 91, bought it for my dog, its a long walk to the beach
Lucky dog. Lucky you that your dog has good taste. I would say you are made for each other. Thank you for watching and commenting.
God bless you m8, the dog car and the.. Cat
@@kensshowtell god bless you and the dog, 🐾
@@ap6878 I love dogs and am quite flattered to be included.
A beautiful car. I have not finished watching the video in its entirety, but do the Hella horns sound like that old and unique Mercedes horn? I love the sound of old Mercedes horns, very exclusive and unique!
I do honk the horns at the end. These Hella horns have the European high/low sound. Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment.
Гарний колір ! Стан - завод!
I like the color too and find it unusual. Thank you for watching and taking your time to comment.
Супер машина,50 лет все работает
Yes. Everything works. It did not when I first acquired it, however. Thank you for watching and commenting.
Love that green!
Me too. Thanks for watching.
Excellent car
Thank you for watching and your lovely comment.
beautiful color, I haven't seen it yet
I fell in love with the color. I've since had several folks send me pictures of their cars in that color. Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment.
Amazing car my frient !!
Thank you. It was an excellent vehicle in its time and continues to be that way. Thank you for watching and taking your time to comment.
very nice, I love this car 🙂
Thank you. Me too.
Классно сохранилась машина,, молодец мужик.
Thank you very much for watching and taking the time to comment.
Шедевр дизайнера.
Thank you for watching and your lovely comment. I agree that it is a masterpiece of design as it has stood the test of time.
Beautiful Benz! I live in Roanoke Va and that looks like a great drive, what road are you on? I would love to take my Mercedes R129 SL 500 down that road.
Thank you for watching and your lovely comment. They are different county roads between Lexington and Middlebrook west if I-81 and US 11, centering on VA 252 (Middlebrook Road).
@@kensshowtell I thought I recognized RT 11. Have to try out 252. Thanks!
@@jamesreckling6697 For you, I would come up to Lexington from Roanoke on US 11. Just as you pass the intersections for I-81 and I-64 turn left onto VA-39. Head towards Goshen but don't go there because you are looking for VA 252 off to your right and take that all the way to Middlebrook or Staunton. Maybe you could visit this Spring on your drive?
@@kensshowtell thanks Ken!
@@kensshowtell thanks again Ken. Yes a spring drive with the top down sounds great!
Great video Ken of this 1973 Mercedes-Benz W108 it is amazing How you look after all of your Classic Cars How do you keep them so Clean and How to you clean all of the Classic Mercedes Benz Cars and will They be a Future Video Of How you Keep all of your Classic Car clean and shiny? They is not so many Videos of how to keep an classic car clean and shiny like how you keep them clean Ken keep with the Good Work Ken👍and you are one of the best people out there Ken who Really enjoys They classic cars and Show us on UA-cam 👍 and also the United Kingdom had the Northern Lights Last Night In Southern England The Part I live it is quite rare for us in the South East
Thank you very much for your very kind comments. With regards to keeping my cars clean all I do is just keep up with them. Unless I'm caught out by accident, I try not to drive them when the roads are wet. After each drive I go over the car with a "California Duster" and clean off any bugs or anything else (smudges, etc.) that has gotten on the car with a very mild window cleaner and a lint-free cloth like micro-fiber cloth. It only takes a few minutes and keeps the car clean for the next drive. I also use a "Spray & Shine" like product in between washes and waxes. I try not to rub the paint with a dry cloth as that causes swirl marks and scratches. They stay inside my Autohouse under car covers ready for the next drive. We were supposed to see the Northern Lights last night. However, I was enjoying a campfire and whiskey, with my cat and I forgot. I will definitely look tonight.
@@kensshowtell Thank you Ken for Telling me about how you keep your Classic Cars All clean and the northern lights was Great to see them It was My First Time seeing them ever and hope to see some more sometime in the near future Good luck with seeing them Tonight Ken Hopefully you will see them And hopefully you will get some Great Pictures ,Videos of the Northern Lights I took A few pictures But I only Got One Very Good Picture Of the Northern Lights I all Ways Wondered what the Northern Lights are like In your part of the World Ken Good luck with seeing Them Later On Tonight Ken 🤞
Extraordinary 👍👉❤️
Thank you.
@@kensshowtell 👉👍
Do you know why some 280 gear shifters are on the steering column?
Thank you for watching. It was customer preference as to how they were ordered when new.
Stunning 😍💪
Thank you. I'm fortunate to have found it,
@@kensshowtell
I NOW first looked at yr other uploads….
You did put that little bit of umpf extra on the car without taking away the period feeling.
Way to often the soulless alloy wheels are put on…
I don’t know many brands of cars that have exterior colors on the hubcaps it connects the wheels visually.
You have done some work that was obviously a labor of ❤️love ❤️ .
Wishing you many happy hours together with that AWESOME time capsule 🍀🙏🏽
@@touraneindanke Wow. How kind. Thank you for watching and our lovely comment.
@@touraneindanke Oh man! thank you very much. I appreciate your comments.
Why is the engine oil colour black? Isn't that an indication of soot or dirt in the oil?
Yes. However, it is actually not black but caramel in color. Engine oil turning from light to dark is a good sign as it is doing its job. Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment.
Wonderful part of the world
Thank you for watching and taking your time to comment. Yes, it is.
Подкапотное пространство забыл. А там M117 d-jet?
Yes, M117 D-Jetronic. Thank you for watching.
This car is mint!
Thank you for watching. I was fortunate to find it locally and that it is such good condition cosmetically. All I had to do was attend to some mechanical issues that developed due to time and benign neglect by the previous owner.
Schönes Video und nett kommentiert!
Thank you. I find it hard to find a good balance between making commentary, allowing for the car to be heard, and music for a relaxing drive.
Классная машина. 😁👍
I think it is a cool car too. Thank you for your lovely comment and watching.
Espetáculo!!!
Enor Soldatelli, de Vacaria, cidade do interior do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil, era proprietário de uma Mercedes-Benz idêntica à relíquia deste vídeo, só que movida a óleo diesel…
👏👏👏👏👏👏
Thank you for watching and commenting. Really? Mercedes Benz did not make a diesel powered W108. Perhaps the car you experienced had an engine switch?
@@kensshowtell I don’t remember which Mercedes model I’m referring to. Maybe it was a 240D, but the design was very similar to the model in the video.
Sorri if You don’t understand my English.
Thank You very much for contacting us and a big hug!
@@jacquesneto4720 Huggs are good, and your English is much better than my Portuguese. I bet you are remembering the W115 Chassis with the 2.4-liter diesel. It was very slow with only about 70 HP compared to my W108 280 SE 4.5 with 200 HP. Built like a tank.
That's a beauty. Love the color
Me too. Thank you for watching, commenting, and subscribing.
It would be cute to call it Algae green or Sherbet. I'm sure it's something more dignified. That car is in exceptional condition. It is commendable that you keep it very close to original.
@@beryllium1932 I have the color code but have not bothered to find out what the actual name of the color is. I could see through the years of neglect and grime the gem underneath. The car has been fortunate in that it has passed through those who have not molested it.
@@kensshowtell I'm surprised that we all Mercedes nerds don't know it! Back in the late-1970s when, as a rural country child, I had no idea how many people were obsessed by the marque, it's design language and conservation. In the video, you were unhooking the tender from the "German-made battery."
I knew you were a good purist!
@@beryllium1932 In all honesty, it is an American brand battery (Autocraft) made in Germany that was already in the car. I need to check the date on it (if it has one) to see how old it is. It is really heavy, continues to crank the engine well, so I know it is a good one.
Sehr schönes Auto👍
Thank you for watching and your lovely comment.
You are welcome...🙏
Parabéns capricho
Thank you very much and for your lovely comment.
Magnifique 🤩 👍
Even I understand that description. Thank you for watching.
That car has not seen rain since he got it 😄
Very true. I've now owned it for 2 years now and it still has not seen rain. Those days are over for that car. Thank you for watching and commenting.
There has been some serious money spent on that beautiful car
Yes. Fortunately for me it was done at some point in the past by an unknown previous owner. That's how I like to buy them. Thanks for watching and taking your time to comment.
I have a old friend who had a European used cars sales, I was his detailer/sales/Cookect-
Thank you for watching.
What a car
Indeed, I am very fortunate the car came my way. Thank you for watching and commenting.
تحفه فنيه من شركه الأحلام الفنيه ومن شعب عملاق لا يعرف المستحيل
Most definitely. I appreciate you watching and taking your time to comment.
Why You do not warm engine? Only 2-3 minutes warming to let oil pumps all systems longs engine life.
Thank you for watching. I did warm up the engine before driving. I did not want to waste video time showing this. So, after starting the engine I edited out the idle time for warming up.
Süper klasik harika kondisyonda tebrikler
Thank you for watching and your kind remark. It is indeed a classic.
Eine Super Kiste !
Thank you for watching. An early S class is definitely super. Thank you for taking your time to comment.
Unless this car was modified it does not have a standard torque converter.
Originally these cars have a robust pump driven four speed Daimler Benz transmission.
Thank you for watching. Sorry, you are incorrect. The 6-cylinder W108 cars had what you describe. All the 4.5 V-8 W108 cars were built for the USA market only and had 3-speed torque converter driven automatics.
@@kensshowtell
Thanks for explaining this.
I'm aware that the W116 6.9 liter model had a 3 Speed BW transmission and the large engine was de-tuned to comply with US emission regulations.
I have owned a W100 and a W109 6.3 and still own a W111 3.5 Coupe here in Australia.
An acquaintance who owns a W111 3.5 cabriolet, imported from California, asked once asked me if he could drive my coupe to see how the two compared.
He could not believe the difference in power between the two cars (same engine...?)
His cabriolet had the US detuned engine and the difference in torque etc was remarkable.
I think that the factory fitted the 4.5 liter engine to the W108 4.5 because the 3.5 (US compliance) engine just did not cut it in America.
@@helmuthhaass3631 That is correct. Also, Mercedes needed to compete in the V-8 luxury segment of the US market with something different than the 6.3 V-8. The US version of the M117 V-8 engine was the bored out M116 (3.5 V-8) with the compression lowered to meet emission standards and they produced the same HP (200 HP) and torque. However, the US version (4.5) was lower revving and more laid back. The California cars had less power due to more emission controls. The rest of the US got the 4.5 V-8 without the emission controls.
Mercedes Benz, don't make them like this anymore, this is when they make good cars. These cars were made to last. Today they wear the name and that is all.
It is sad and true. Thank you for watching and commenting.
Respect
Thank you for your lovely comment.
Exquisit car. New Mercedes being less classy.
Very true. This was a time when luxury was measured by quality of materials and engineering excellence. Thank you for watching and your lovely comment.
What Beautiful car /
Thank you. I appreciate you watching and taking your time to comment.