Mercedes 280SE 3.5 coupe: Style, power & high-tech W111 | Tyrrell's Classic Workshop

In this episode, Iain introduces us to a rather special example of the Mercedes-Benz W111, a 280SE 3.5 Coupe, and traces its lineage right back to the Ponton models of the 1950s. While at first glance the W111 Coupe may seem like an entirely new design, it shares much of its core structure with earlier saloon models, including the same unitary concept that underpinned the Ponton and later the Fintail. This continuity of engineering forms the backdrop to Iain’s exploration of how Mercedes-Benz gradually evolved their design and safety philosophy during this period. One of the W111’s most notable innovations was the inclusion of a passenger safety cell, invented by Béla Barényi– a concept we now take for granted, but at the time represented a major leap forward in automotive safety. The 280SE 3.5 also features one of Mercedes’ most advanced powerplants of the era: a 3.5-litre V8 with Bosch’s pioneering Jetronic electronic fuel injection system. Iain takes the opportunity to delve into the workings of this early EFI system, examining how it differs from the mechanical injection setups more commonly found in period European cars. As ever, no visit to the workshop would be complete without a drive. Iain takes the V8 W111 Coupe out on the road to see how this elegant GT performs today, over half a century since it left the Stuttgart production line. Does it live up to its reputation for refinement, and what does it feel like behind the wheel of a car that helped define the modern luxury coupe? Whether you're a long-time Mercedes enthusiast or simply curious about the development of the W111 series, this video offers a detailed look into the engineering, history and lasting appeal of one of Mercedes-Benz’s most iconic models. Join this channel to get access to special TCW Member perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2pQT90JBqbMHSVLtbJBvyw/join This video was brought to you by Howden - https://www.howdengroup.com/uk-en/tyrrellsworkshop For a free valuation from Hampson Auctions, please click https://hampsonauctions.com/tyrrells-classic-workshop/ Follow Iain on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iain_tyrrell/ X / Twitter: https://www.x.com/iaintyrrellcars = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = IMAGE CREDITS 1959 Mercedes-Benz 220 S Ponton cabriolet - rvl | Third Annu… | Flickr Cadillac de Ville series - Wikipedia Dodge Coronet — Wikipédia Chevrolet Bel Air (1955) | Wilson High School is located abo… | Flickr 1959 Plymouth Sport Fury | 361 Golden Comando with factory d… | Flickr 1961-62 Buick Special | Seen in the parking lot at the fall … | Flickr 1954 Mercedes Benz 300 SL "Gullwing" | big-ashb | Flickr

Added 19 Jun 2026