1972 Mercedes-Benz 280S/SE

This is the second generation of S-class cars, and the one that cemented Mercedes’ reputation at the top of the saloon car pecking order. The 280s were the basic models, though not that basic, and came with a twin-cam straight-six that produced either 160bhp with carbs (S) or 185bhp using fuel injection (SE). To say they led the market in safety features might sound boring, but they also had a fair turn of speed and excellent roadholding thanks to their new semi-trailing arm rear suspension. Now much cheaper than they deserve to be.

Information from Octane Magazine.