Autoblog and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article.The 300 SEL 3.5 was the first V8 version of the W108/W109 S-Class, introduced for 1970 and built on the longer wheelbase W109 platform with self-leveling air suspension. This 1971 example was registered to one California owner from new until the selling dealer acquired it in 2023, finished in Tobacco Brown over Palomino leather, and it comes with an unusually deep stack of service records, including documented engine work over the years. Recent 2026 work cited by the dealer includes an oil change, a new fuel pump, and replacement of the suspension air valves and bellows.1971 Mercedes-Benz 300SELAccording to Classic.com market data for the 300SEL 3.5, recorded sales range from a high of $46,000 down to about $4,300, reflecting the wide condition and mileage spread for these cars. This example sits at the higher end of the mileage range at 302,000 miles, which places it toward the lower end of that range on the odometer alone, but the documentation, recent suspension repairs, and original color combination support its case. The current bid of $1,451 with two days remaining is very early, and the result will hinge on how bidders weigh the records and recent work against the mileage and the items still needing attention.Thinking about selling your car? Get an instant cash offer online now. Click here to get started.The offerMake: Mercedes-BenzModel: 300SEL 3.5 (W109)Year: 1971Mileage: 302,000 milesEngine: 3.5-liter M116 V8 with Bosch fuel injectionPower: 200 hp and 211 lb.ft of torqueTransmission: Four-speed automaticDrive type: Rear wheel driveExterior color: Tobacco BrownInterior color: Palomino leatherCurrent bid: $1,451Auction end date: June 17, 2026AdvertisementAdvertisementInterested in this 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300SEL 3.5? View the listing here.1971 Mercedes-Benz 300SELShopping for a new car? Click here to get a great deal on your next car. Powered by Carvana, no haggle pricing, 100% online.1971 Mercedes-Benz 300SEL 3.5 listing detailsThe car is finished in Tobacco Brown with stacked quad headlights, wrap-around bumpers, front vent windows, 3.5 decklid badging, a Standing Star hood ornament, bright trim, town and country horns, a power antenna, and butterfly wipers. The dealer notes that the left front fender and part of the driver's door were refinished to address scrapes; a dent is noted in the center of the rear bumper; and corrosion is noted on portions of the underside. It rides on 14-inch steel wheels with bright covers and 205/70 Michelin X tires, with the factory self-leveling air suspension and four-wheel disc brakes.1971 Mercedes-Benz 300SELThe 3.5-liter M116 V8 uses Bosch fuel injection and was rated at 200 hp and 211 lb.ft when new, driving the rear wheels through a four-speed automatic. The air valves and all four bellows were replaced in April 2026, though the seller notes the system still sags over about 48 hours and believes a remaining leveling valve is the cause. Oil residue is present on the bottom of the engine, and the records include documented engine work, such as timing chain and tensioner service, performed over the car's long history.1971 Mercedes-Benz 300SELThe cabin uses front bucket seats and a rear bench in Palomino leather, with refurbished wood trim on the doors and dashboard, power windows, central locking, a heated rear window, and air conditioning. The seller is candid about several faults, including an inoperative Becker Europa radio, a split in the right front seat cushion, a driver's window that hops in its track, non-working blinkers, and a rear passenger window that only operates from the rear switch. A set of branded floor mats is included.1971 Mercedes-Benz 300SELAdvertisementAdvertisement1971 Mercedes-Benz 300SEL 3.5 quick takeThe 300SEL 3.5 is a refined V8 S-Class from an era many consider a high point for Mercedes build quality, and its self-leveling air suspension and torquey M116 make it a comfortable long-distance cruiser. This example's strengths are its single-family California history, the depth of its records, the desirable Tobacco Brown over Palomino color combination, and recent suspension and fuel system work. The counterweights are the 302,000-mile odometer, underbody corrosion, and a list of disclosed electrical and trim faults, so it suits a buyer who values documentation and patina over a low-mileage restoration and is prepared to continue sorting it.Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only. We are not a dealership or broker. All vehicle specifications, pricing, and availability are subject to change without notice. We are not responsible for typographical errors, omissions, or the accuracy of the provided information. Please verify all details directly with the seller.Autoblog aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.This story was originally published by Autoblog on Jun 16, 2026, where it first appeared in the Car Buying section. Add Autoblog as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
+21 others
