The model car described here represents the Mercedes-Benz 280 SE (W 108), a vehicle produced between 1965 and 1972. This series was developed as the successor to the W 111 series, offering significant technical and design improvements. The Mercedes-Benz 280 SE (W 108) was designed by Paul Bracq. Bracq, a French automotive designer, was also responsible for other notable Mercedes models. The vehicle was equipped with an M130 engine, an inline-six with a displacement of 2.8 liters, delivering around 160 horsepower. This power allowed the car to reach a top speed of about 190 km/h (118 mph) and accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in approximately 10 seconds.
This exquisite 1/18 scale model car was manufactured by AUTOart Millennium and is based on the Mercedes-Benz 280 SE (W 108). The detailed diecast miniature model impresses with its precision and accurate reproduction of the original. Particularly striking is the glossy black paint that shines in the light, accentuating the vehicle's elegant lines. The front of the model showcases the iconic Mercedes grille and classic round headlights adorned with chrome details. The window frames are also chrome, enhancing the vehicle's sophistication.
The Mercedes-Benz 280 SE (W 108) features some remarkable technical features. In addition to a robust engine, the car was equipped with a variety of comfort and safety features that were innovative at the time. These included disc brakes on all four wheels, a double wishbone front suspension, and a single-pivot swing axle at the rear. The hybrid steel monocoque design also contributed to stability and increased safety. The interior was luxuriously appointed with leather seats and a well-crafted dashboard with wood trim. The AUTOart Millennium miniature model captures these details well – especially the detailed interior with brown seats and well-crafted instruments.
To better understand the era in which the Mercedes-Benz 280 SE (W 108) was created, it's worth looking at some historical events of that time. In 1965, for example, the Vietnam War was still ongoing, and the space race between the USA and the Soviet Union was in full swing. Bob Dylan released his legendary song "Like a Rolling Stone," and the Beatles were at the peak of their career. These examples illustrate how long ago this car first hit the roads, giving the model car additional historical depth. For collectors, the 1/18 scale AUTOart Millennium model offers a high-quality and accurate reproduction of the Mercedes-Benz 280 SE (W 108), impressing with both its craftsmanship and historically correct portrayal of the original. Interesting for the collector community is that this model is owned by Carjunky, a member of the Modelly model car community, making it part of an international collection.