European companies such as Brabus and Mechatronik have been revitalising classic Mercedes models for many years. An American firm by the name Retro Designs has added its name to the list with the creation of this beautiful 1969 Mercedes 280SE restomod.
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Changing Course
Retro Designs, which was founded in 2010, is based in North Caroline. The company has typically restored and revitalised older models, mostly from the US. From classic American muscle cars to exotic high-performance machines, the Retro Designs team has spent years under the hood. Our Concord headquarters is in the heart of motorsports country. We have access to the best of the best in the automotive industry, including Nascar-trained technicians with decades of experience.
Click here to check out a really cool Mercedes Ponton restomod bakkie built here in sunny SA.
A Grand Old Lady
The 1969 Mercedes 280SE restomod is based on the highly desirable w111 series of Mercedes coupe. This is the car that is considered a precursor to the S-class. Retro Designs has completely stripped down and rebuilt the old classic. The roof has been shaved of all gutters and trim. In addition the body has been covered in shade of green normally seen on old Porsches. The aftermarket Evod Industries billet wheels, with floating hubcaps, keep the original theme, but allow for larger tyres..
The interior has been refurbished, but retains is classic appearance. It wears new leather upholstery in its original deep tan colour. There are few modern touches, such as the heated seats, door cards and infotainment system. Although, we have to say, we’d have preferred the latter to be hidden out of sight.
Modern Take
Under that long bonnet is a Mercedes V8 sourced from a C55 AMG. The M113 V8 has a custom wiring loom, exhausts and an aftermarket ECU. As a result it offers four times the power of the original 280SE motor at a stonking 477 kW. The same donor car gives up its transmission, whic is a five speed unit that is slim enough to fit in the standard transmission tunnel.
The suspension is said to be ‘completely’ reworked, no doubt to deal with the extra power. In addition the car has Brembo brakes for added safety. This subtle blend of AMG power and timeless design is a love letter to German engineering. Despite the massive punch, this isn’t meant to be a hotrod, rather a GT car that can eat up the miles on a cross continental cruise. Learn more about the car in the video below.
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