1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 Sedan

History

Introduced in 1968, the Mercedes-Benz W114/115 midsize lineup included the 280 sedan seen here. Penned by Paul Bracq, designer of icons like the Mercedes 600 and BMW E24 6-series, it was noted for an all-new, fully independent suspension. Unequal length A-arms with ball joints and coil springs were mounted up front with a rear subframe and trailing arms keeping the back end planted. Four corner disc brakes were another modern upgrade lending credence to the sporty prowess noted in marketing from the era.

Instantly recognizable by its three-box style with simple straight lines, the W114/115 is perhaps best known for its durability. When folks talk about German automotive build quality, they’re likely referring to this particular generation of Benzes. Currently residing in the corporate museum, as a testament to that durability, is a Greek taxi driver’s 1976 240D with a whopping 2.85 million miles. This blend of classic styling, crisp-for-the-time handling and incredible craftsmanship is what makes a model like the 1973 280 sedan up for auction so desirable today.