1973 Mercedes Benz 280SE 4.5 Drive

This is the fourth video documenting the reconditioning of my 1972 Mercedes Benz 280SE 4.5. I purchased this car in June of 2021 and have made it road worthy. The only cosmetics it required was a good cleaning and wax. Now that the car is road worthy, we take this beauty for a ride on a mid-November 2021 day on typical Southern Augusta County and Northern Rockbridge County roads in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. I will publish the first 3 videos later. This video was done on November 24, 2021

[@andreysherwood756]

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!!!!

[@kensshowtell]

Wow. You have the only one on the road in Leningrad? That's so cool. Thank you for watching and for your lovely comment.

[@user-ey7jy5rn6y]

Именно эта модель мне очень нравится!👍 Вы молодец, что так бережно относитесь к автомобилю!🙂👍

[@kensshowtell]

Me too. I try to be careful with it and enjoy it at the same time. Thank you for watching.

[@user-ey7jy5rn6y]

@@kensshowtell ,👍

[@specop6783]

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!

[@kensshowtell]

You are very kind. Thank you for watching and taking your time to comment.

[@iandonkin6762]

That is a beautiful example and you must be very proud.

[@kensshowtell]

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.

[@alihassoun2311]

صنعت كي لا تفنى، انها مرسيدس بنز فخر الصناعة الالمانية والأوروبية والعالمية جمعاء ولا أحد يضاهيها مطلقا.

[@kensshowtell]

Thank you for watching. Yes, when engineering and style were synonymous.

[@abdellahog9386]

Classic Mercedes cars are the best ever made German cars

[@kensshowtell]

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.

[@NN-iu6bh]

Wow. It's new! Beautiful. That was a MERCEDES. I love these old MERCEDES!

[@kensshowtell]

Thank you for watching and your lovely comment. I really do enjoy that car.

[@krwd]

Yes the over under headlight and that grille beautiful

[@kensshowtell]

@@krwd Thank you for your lovely comment and for watching.

[@BITTYBOY121]

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 ! 👍

[@kensshowtell]

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.

[@BITTYBOY121]

@@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.

[@НурлыбекКадыров-к2ц]

Аксакал, дай Бог вам здоровья и долгих лет счастливой жизни 👏👏👏👍🙋‍♂️🇰🇿🇰🇿🇰🇿🇰🇿🇰🇿

[@kensshowtell]

Really! You are too kind. Thank you for watching and your lovely comment.

[@НиязМияссаров]

Да хранит тебя и твою семью Аллах

[@kensshowtell]

And protect you and yours too.

[@cristiancus1559]

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!

[@kensshowtell]

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.

[@Leo-DaGreek]

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

[@kensshowtell]

Yes, Coco Coco Mats is a very good company to deal with. They are located just outside of Charleston, SC.

[@davidefland1985]

Those old Mercedes are really nice. I like the dash and guages. The SL-380’s were popular.

[@kensshowtell]

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.

[@altaybozkurt4147]

DIESER TYP HAT WIRKLICH GESCHMACK WAS AUTO ANGEHT! SCHÖN V8 MERCEDES 👌🏻

[@kensshowtell]

Wow! Thank you for watching and your very kind remark.

[@Dammocless]

Paul Bracq is a genius

[@kensshowtell]

Yes, he was. Thank you for watching and taking your time to comment.

[@mercedesmaintenance.6339]

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.

[@kensshowtell]

Wow! Thank you so much for watching and your wonderful comment. She is still going strong.

[@persereika7401]

I personally like their blue or yellow so much more but this colour really fits to the time it was build in.

[@kensshowtell]

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

[@girl-pl3wx]

Amazing car , my favorite Mercedes !! 👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾

[@kensshowtell]

Thank you for watching and your lovely comment.

[@darkangel15joao]

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!

[@kensshowtell]

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]

@@kensshowtell How long is the preparation and wrap taking? The shop is being very meticulous on it. very nice.

[@kensshowtell]

@@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.

[@essammohamed5351]

تحفه فنيه من شركه الأحلام الفنيه ومن شعب عملاق لا يعرف المستحيل

[@kensshowtell]

Most definitely. I appreciate you watching and taking your time to comment.

[@marcelodibenedetto276]

Divinooooooo todavía eran Mercedes Benz!

[@kensshowtell]

Thanks for watching.

[@libertelibre]

Exquisit car. New Mercedes being less classy.

[@kensshowtell]

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.

[@girl-pl3wx]

Amazing car my frient !!

[@kensshowtell]

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.

[@kasel55]

Fantastic! 💖💖💖💖💖

[@kensshowtell]

Thank you for watching and your lovely comment.

[@SMERTRUSOSVINYM]

Классная машина. 😁👍

[@kensshowtell]

I think it is a cool car too. Thank you for your lovely comment and watching.

[@jimmymanan5997]

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!

[@kensshowtell]

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.

[@DerAnstreicher]

Schönes Video und nett kommentiert!

[@kensshowtell]

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.

[@rivhattukhbatullin3106]

Мерседес в этом кузове моя мечта . ,

[@kensshowtell]

I definitely agree. Thank you for watching.

[@ozcarraczo2800]

Подкапотное пространство забыл. А там M117 d-jet?

[@kensshowtell]

Yes, M117 D-Jetronic. Thank you for watching.

[@waltergotz6411]

Eine Super Kiste !

[@kensshowtell]

Thank you for watching. An early S class is definitely super. Thank you for taking your time to comment.

[@НиязМияссаров]

Мир вашему дому, мир праведным и достойным мира !!!

[@kensshowtell]

Peace to you too. Thank you for watching and your lovely comment.

[@touraneindanke]

Stunning 😍💪

[@kensshowtell]

Thank you. I'm fortunate to have found it,

[@touraneindanke]

@@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 🍀🙏🏽

[@kensshowtell]

@@touraneindanke Wow. How kind. Thank you for watching and our lovely comment.

[@kensshowtell]

@@touraneindanke Oh man! thank you very much. I appreciate your comments.

[@Денис-м5е]

Редкость, машина. 1973год.

[@kensshowtell]

Thank for watching and commenting.

[@teoturopinski1652]

Это W116 ? или я ошибаюсь?

[@MYGAME-vn9ev]

@@teoturopinski1652 ошибаешся. 111 или 112 это

[@teoturopinski1652]

@@MYGAME-vn9ev Да, спасибо ,уже вижу.✋

[@vadim4ik938]

​@@MYGAME-vn9ev Ты тоже ошибаешься это 108/109

[@БахытАбитаев]

Раньше инжинеры не только труд они душу вкладывали в машины а сейчас маркетологи диктуют

[@kensshowtell]

Oh, so true. These cars were not built to a price point. They cost what they cost. Thank you for watching and taking your time to comment.

[@helmuthhaass3631]

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.

[@kensshowtell]

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.

[@helmuthhaass3631]

@@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.

[@kensshowtell]

@@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.

[@МаратКармышев]

Супер!!!! огонь 🔥

[@kensshowtell]

Super indeed. Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@Leo-DaGreek]

Roger That!!

[@kensshowtell]

Thank you for watching and commenting.

[@selvinazcam8090]

No music

[@kensshowtell]

Thanks for watching. None at all?

[@texaschilli5684]

ماشاءالله تبارك الله ولا حول ولاقوة الابالله

[@kensshowtell]

True.

[@javedsahibzada4069]

❤❤❤

[@kensshowtell]

Thank you for watching and the three hearts. They are lovely.

[@passagesoumica7902]

سيارة جميلة

[@kensshowtell]

Thank you very much. I appreciate that you took your time to watch and to comment.

[@alprausch711]

Ein Traumwagen 😍 kann ich ihn haben? 😁

[@kensshowtell]

Thank you for watching and you lovely comment. Yes, it is a dream car. Perhaps, when I can no longer drive it.

[@SWRWOLF]

It is not a Long-Version (SEL)!

[@kensshowtell]

Thanks for watching. That is correct. It is a 280SE, just like the title says. Not a 280SEL

[@shawnMSX]

Think I'm moving to Virginia

[@kensshowtell]

You would be a nice addition. Thank you for watching and commenting.

[@serg3123]

I had Mercedes S 320 , pain in the neck those cars, especially electronics, maybe they ok with tanks, Adolfo didn't do a good job on tanks fighting whole Europe.

[@kensshowtell]

Yes. Mercedes built after 1985, well maybe 1990, were not analog cars and their electronics were awful. Since 2000 they have gotten much better. Unfortunately, you owned one during the lemon years when engineers no longer ran the company and cars were built to a price and not to a build standard. This is why there is such a universal love affair with vintage Mercedes cars. They were built to a standard and not a price point. Thank you for watching.

[@ericbitzer5247]

When Mercedes started competing with Lexus and Acura, the engineers were not in charge anymore and they cheapened on materials.

[@kensshowtell]

@@ericbitzer5247 Very true. The company, for the first time, started building cars to a price point instead of focusing on the highest quality product. Even though I love my W123 (1984 300D), I can see that starting to happen with those models although build quality remained high, the quality of materials, especially the interior cheapened. Thank you for watching.

[@ОлегВасильев-у2й]

Вот это машина так машина,японцы никогда такого не делали и не сделают

[@kensshowtell]

True. No manufacturer will ever again make a car like the W108/109. Thank you for watching and your very kind remark.

[@СергейМаслов-ь5г]

У японцев есть и свои шедевры

[@ОлегВасильев-у2й]

@@СергейМаслов-ь5г у них никогда не было шедевров так как их автобизнес основан на страшной экономии матерьялов во всём,а значит в таких случаях получится полное гавно

[@kensshowtell]

@@СергейМаслов-ь5г Very true. Thank you for watching.

[@kensshowtell]

@@СергейМаслов-ь5г True.

[@bwa7183]

Тогда Мерседес был Машиной, а не жирным китом!😅😂🤣

[@kensshowtell]

I had not thought of the change in that way. Good observation. Thank you for watching.

[@beterolun3023]

İşte ben bunu istiyorum 😍

[@kensshowtell]

Thank you for your confirmation and for watching.

[@skorpion6093]

👍👏👏👍

[@kensshowtell]

Thank you for watching.

[@ottoweber7784]

why playing those f**** Musik....let us hear the sound of the Engine

[@kensshowtell]

Thanks for watching.

[@ClaudeSac]

@ottoweber7784 ... rude...

[@kensshowtell]

@@ClaudeSac You too. Thanks for watching.

[@0n596]

Nice old car - bad music that does not fit. Thumbs down!!!

[@kensshowtell]

Thank you for watching anyway.

[@oliverlondon5246]

Super boring

[@kensshowtell]

Thanks for watching anyway.

[@ronjaspers1963]

Oliver London.Stop talking to the mirror.

[@kensshowtell]

@@ronjaspers1963 Clever! Oh. Thanks for watching and taking your time to comment.

[@helmuthhaass3631]

But reliable and strong, also a pleasure to steer. Quality is never boring!

[@emilefouquet9005]

What is the purpose of this video ? All manufacturers' cars from the 1920's through the 1960's and early 70's were superior to the garbage of today. This video like dozens of others on KZbin about Classic/Vintage cars, fails to explain and demonstrate 'why were they better'. Additionally, these amateur automotive afficiendos do not have any Technical Training or Knowledge to identify the strengths and weaknesses of any vehicle. Some of these clowns focus on how beautiful the 'Wheel Covers' are. This particular example was completely Re-Painted in the wrong shade of Green. It looks like a Pistachio Ice Cream Cone

[@ВладимиртуфтаВладимиров]

Теперь Будем Молится ! Этому Богу .

[@goerizal1]

@ emile fouquet: my first mercedes, i thought i was in heaven and would keep it forever . the color was white. in three months, after 3000 miles, i found out i had to add 4 quartz of oil. the engine was burning it thru its leaking valve seals. i was not as aware of new car warranties then as i am now. its walls would have rusted through in 2 years if i did not sell it after a year. there were two to three rustproofing ziebarts in every block then. fast forward 35 years and i got an infiniti 4 dr sedan. it lasted me over ten years and over a 100,000 miles with only a yearly oil change, a lot more practical gadgetry than any mercedes until totaled by a truck rear ending it. i have also a 1991 5 speed nsx with over 120 K with only an oil change every 3K miles and newer tires. transmission never needed to be opened and brakes still original. now, which cars did you say, are better?

[@emilefouquet9005]

@@goerizal1 The following criteria must be used in order to support the claim of a "Good Car" or "Best Car". Structural Integrity, Engine Design and Performance, Transmission Type & Final Drive, Piston Travel Per Mile, Horsepower, Torque, Braking System, Suspension Design, Steering Type, Analogue versus Electronic Gauges, Passenger Comfort, Fuel Consumption, Parts Availability & Cost, Repair Labor Costs and Market Value. What cars have you owned that reflect any of the above ? To state that you are pleased or happy with any single car, means nothing. P.S. you should have done some homework on your first Benz before purchasing. What walls would have rusted through ?

[@goerizal1]

@@emilefouquet9005: my first car was a mercury cougar 1969, then a 1971 bmw 2001, then a 1972 6 cylinder bmw bavaria 4 dr, then a 4.5 liter mercedes 280 se, then a 2 dr mercedes 250 coupe, then a 450 mercedes se, then a mercedes turbodiesel, then a used 72 500 mercedes 6.3 short wheelbase limo, then a mercedes 420 sel, nissan pathfinder, nissan infiniti, 1991 acura nsx, acura legend, honda civic suv, audi A6 2018. all new except for the 500 limo and the audi A6. how many bicycles did you say you had?

[@goerizal1]

@emile fouquet: i forgot to mention a 1972 BMW 3.0L 4speed coupe.

[@yuryyuryev7701]

Такой роскошный автомобиль в руках американского колхозника…

[@kensshowtell]

I've never thought of myself like that. I like it though. Thank you for watching and taking your time to comment.

[@fakenodata1548]

Колхозник это по сути крепостной раб без права на владение средствами производства в частной собственности. А у них там нет колхозов, их отменили в 1865.

[@kensshowtell]

@@fakenodata1548 I appreciated the thought. Thank you for watching.

[@Gatussomissifur]

Que lastima ,se te fue la vida conservando ese trozo de metal ensamblado en una nave industrial y tampoco lo disfruto ,en fin cada uno ve la vida a su manera .

[@kensshowtell]

Thank you for watching. I'm still alive so I have not lost my life and I don't have an industrial warehouse.

[@M.Halawi]

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!

[@kensshowtell]

Thank you for your very kind remarks. This car is indeed fun and relaxing to drive.

[@Stephaneholyfield]

You're right brother 💯💯💯💯👌🙏❤

[@kensshowtell]

@@Stephaneholyfield Thank you for your support and your wonderful comment.

[@fgxyuinbffghvxdthh3110]

Оце Мерс не те що зараз!

[@kensshowtell]

Very true. My wife has a 2013 C300 4-Matic Luxury. Nice car but so is a Honda Accord. Thank you for watching and taking your time to comment.

[@danf321]

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.

[@kensshowtell]

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.

[@valatichev]

Это тот самый дед, который ездил за молоком и только в солнечную погоду! ))))

[@kensshowtell]

Definitely the way it's done these days. Thanks for watching.

[@akiladucho9745]

Респект этому старому человеку, который сохранил такую легендарную машину в отличном состоянии. Это не машина, а сказка👍👍👍 Спасибо вам мил человек)

[@kensshowtell]

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.

[@harendabar]

Ohh boy. EFI. 😊. Definitely nice ride.

[@kensshowtell]

The first is a family sedan. Thank you for watching.

[@JagMan78]

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.

[@ap6878]

Its a rare car the 4.5 from 72 73,200 hp

[@ap6878]

280se, great car

[@ap6878]

People with a brain drive a star, ding dong, thats a car

[@kensshowtell]

Interesting. thanks for watching and commenting.

[@kensshowtell]

@@ap6878 Well, actually 190-200 HP. The praise is appreciated.

[@vitaliyzapolochnyy1739]

Это произведение искуства 👍

[@kensshowtell]

I think so too. Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@TKM_777]

💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿🧿🧿💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿🧿🧿🧿💯🧿🧿💯🧿🧿🧿🧿💯🧿🧿💯🧿💯🧿🧿💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿🧿💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿🧿💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿🧿💯🧿💯🧿🧿💯💯🧿💯🧿🧿💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿🧿💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿🧿💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿🧿💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿🧿💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿🧿🧿💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿🧿🧿🧿💯🧿🧿💯🧿🧿🧿🧿💯🧿🧿💯🧿💯🧿🧿💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿🧿💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿🧿💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿🧿💯🧿💯🧿🧿💯💯🧿💯🧿🧿💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿🧿💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿🧿💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿🧿💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿🧿💯🧿💯🧿💯🧿

[@kensshowtell]

I've not seen praise like that before. thank you for watching and your lovely comment.

[@ivanstakanin]

Особое уважение деду хозяина этой красавицы салам из Таджикистана 👍👍👍

[@kensshowtell]

You are too kind. Thank you for watching and commenting.

[@tenyudonkov]

This car is also a masterpiece as Me262 Schwalbe. The car has beautiful colour.

[@kensshowtell]

I agree. Thank you for your lovely comment and for watching.

[@tenyudonkov]

@@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.

[@kensshowtell]

@@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.

[@tenyudonkov]

@@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.

[@kensshowtell]

@@tenyudonkov Wow, wow, and wow again! Thank you for watching and taking your time to make these lovely comments.

[@panchabdr5069]

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.

[@kensshowtell]

Thank you for watching and your lovely comments.

[@muhjm1946]

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.

[@kensshowtell]

It is sad and true. Thank you for watching and commenting.

[@ahogQ]

Amazing car you have sir. None of the modern MB junk will last that long.

[@kensshowtell]

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.

[@gregharvie3896]

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.

[@kensshowtell]

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.

[@jonstangerjazz9188]

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.

[@kensshowtell]

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.

[@gunni5110]

Auto für Erwachsene...

[@friedhelm1615]

Das war noch Qualität ,. Made in Germany, original. Keinerlei verbaute China Plunder und nur so viel Elektronik wie notwendig... 👌

[@kensshowtell]

Interesting. It does take adult taste to appreciate timeless design and engineering. Thank you for watching and commenting.

[@kensshowtell]

@@friedhelm1615 Very true indeed. A totally analog car. When luxury was based on quality of engineering and build. Thank you for watching and commenting.

[@Leo-DaGreek]

I have a old friend who had a European used cars sales, I was his detailer/sales/Cookect-

[@kensshowtell]

Thank you for watching.

[@prestonlloyd9249]

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.

[@kensshowtell]

Yes, I find the combination very refreshing today. Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@bhaimohamed5249]

time capsule absolutely beautiful pristine condition 72 no rattles smooth driving

[@kensshowtell]

Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@joaoregioheitor1325]

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]

Wow! Thank you very much for your lovely comment and for watching.

[@АнатолийЕрмолов-ь2т]

Это шидевр

[@kensshowtell]

I think so too. Thank you for watching and your very kind remark.

[@ГЕЛАРДПачулия-е5ч]

Когда её произвели у папы была ваз 2101 с итальянским движком , я думал мы в космосе , а оказывается что в дерме был наш автопром , а загнивающий капитализм на марсе 😢. И это всего лишь 28 лет спустя после разгрома Германии!

[@kensshowtell]

Thank you for watching and commenting. Yes, Mercedes Benz basically invented the modern car with the introduction of the Simplex. It is amazing how quickly Mercedes bounced back after the WWII.

[@bjornaltmann8184]

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.

[@kensshowtell]

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.

[@mikkelsrensen5892]

Germany Quality.

[@kensshowtell]

Yes. These cars from the 1960's, 70's & 80's due indeed reflect a corporate attitude and pride of their products. There was a profit motive for sure, but no hyperbole. As a period, Mercedes advertisement said, "All cars fall apart sooner or later. Our cars fall apart later." Thank you for watching.

[@jamescosby2343]

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

[@kensshowtell]

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.

[@fanboy1575]

master pice👍 l am congrats you

[@kensshowtell]

Very kind. Thank you for watching and your lovely comment.

[@ianmuir3640]

There has been some serious money spent on that beautiful car

[@kensshowtell]

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.

[@duanetrivett750]

Ken , I enjoy seeing these old Mercedes very much. The 60s and 70s are my favorites. Build them great and they stay great.

[@kensshowtell]

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.

[@j.b.8359]

Nice car, nice video!! greetings from Germany, Jens

[@kensshowtell]

Greetings to you too. Thank you for watching and taking your time to comment and say hello.

[@Backwardlooking]

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.

[@kensshowtell]

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.

[@Backwardlooking]

@@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. 👍🏻🇺🇸

[@kensshowtell]

@@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.

[@Backwardlooking]

@@kensshowtell I totally agree and avoid certain roads for precisely that reason.

[@andreys6562]

Классно сохранилась машина,, молодец мужик.

[@kensshowtell]

Thank you very much for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@КеменгерМусабеков]

Супер машина,50 лет все работает

[@kensshowtell]

Yes. Everything works. It did not when I first acquired it, however. Thank you for watching and commenting.

[@dino2400]

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.

[@kensshowtell]

Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@jamesreckling6697]

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.

[@kensshowtell]

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]

@@kensshowtell I thought I recognized RT 11. Have to try out 252. Thanks!

[@kensshowtell]

@@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?

[@jamesreckling6697]

@@kensshowtell thanks Ken!

[@jamesreckling6697]

@@kensshowtell thanks again Ken. Yes a spring drive with the top down sounds great!

[@davidherrera2465]

Extraordinary 👍👉❤️

[@kensshowtell]

Thank you.

[@davidherrera2465]

@@kensshowtell 👉👍

[@Jaroslavlviv]

Гарний колір ! Стан - завод!

[@kensshowtell]

I like the color too and find it unusual. Thank you for watching and taking your time to comment.

[@ЕленаБелоград]

Авто яке варте уваги !

[@kensshowtell]

It gets it too. Thank you.

[@warmblood58]

That is a beautiful w108! I had a 6.3 years ago which I miss dearly , the 280se much more practical.

[@kensshowtell]

Thank you for watching and commenting. The 6.3 cars really bring big money these days.

[@ap6878]

The 6.2 sucked

[@kensshowtell]

@@ap6878 I think you mean the 6.3-liter M100 engine.

[@wagnerespadinha204]

My father had one green also. 280 se. Very nice.

[@kensshowtell]

I'm discovering that this color of green was not that rare back in the day. Thank you for watching.

[@rodionkim5971]

Владелец просто красавчик что сохранил так автомобиль. Очень сильно уважаю людей которые относятся так к технике

[@kensshowtell]

You are very kind. Thank you for watching and commenting.

[@ВоваВова-ь3ч]

А когда он достал щуп, а там было свежее моторное масло, это многого стоит.

[@kensshowtell]

@@ВоваВова-ь3ч Yes, fresh engine oil is very important. Thank you for watching and for your lovely comment.

[@ВоваВова-ь3ч]

@@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.

[@kensshowtell]

@@ВоваВова-ь3ч Yes, we are both lucky. Thank you for your very kind comment.

[@thethailander1134]

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.

[@kensshowtell]

Absolutely. Thank you for watching and commenting.

[@GS-vn8vo]

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 😉

[@kensshowtell]

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.

[@denisonpizzato1311]

Parabéns capricho

[@kensshowtell]

Thank you very much and for your lovely comment.

[@javadaghrab5687]

Mercedes please make decent cars like you did and stop making shit cars that Last 5 Years. This is a car driven by a fine gentleman

[@kensshowtell]

Well said indeed. Thank you for watching and our lovely comment.

[@javadaghrab5687]

@@kensshowtell oh absolutely that is my favorite class of Mercedes but I can't find any in my budget I drive a w140

[@kensshowtell]

@@javadaghrab5687 The w108/109 chassis has suffered years of indifference in the vintage car world. Now folks are re-discovering how wonderful they are. They can be expensive to put back right again. Thank you for watching and for your lovely comment.

[@ericbitzer5247]

Absolutely gorgeous car, and the color is great because it isn't ubiquitous!

[@kensshowtell]

I had not seen that color before. I really like the interior and exterior combination. Thank you for watching and your lovely comment.

[@reighbh13]

speechless, positively stunning😊

[@kensshowtell]

Thank you for watching and your very kind comment. I'm very hapy with this car.