Vehicle Description
In 1963, Mercedes-Benz debuted an all-new roadster to replace the
190SL and 300SL, the 230SL. The 230SL 'Pagoda' was a stunning Paul
Bracq designed two-seat convertible that followed Mercedes' new
design language, featuring crisp lines and upright headlights. To
save on weight, the hood, door skins, boot lid, and tonneau cover
were all composed of aluminium. The nickname 'Pagoda' was quickly
adopted thanks to the slightly concave roof on the optional
removable hardtop that resembled a pagoda roof. In 1967, Mercedes
introduced the third and final iteration of the 'Pagoda', the
280SL, and it then became apparent that some cars don't change,
they just get better. The 280 featured the same modified W111
chassis with a rear swing axle and independent front suspension and
four-wheel disc brakes. Power came from a 2.8 liter version of
Mercedes-Benz robust inline-six and used Bosch fuel injection. A
charming model with capable handling and braking thanks to its
suspension and all-wheel disc brakes. These roadsters also have one
of the most beautiful bodies produced in the 1960s. Thanks to their
robust inline-six and their luxurious Mercedes interior, they are
wonderful cars to be driven and enjoyed. We are delighted to offer
this UK registered 280 SL that was delivered on the 18th April,
1969 to the United States. The car was first registered in the UK
on the 1st December, 2009 and was purchased by the current
registered keeper on the 15th March, 2013. A vehicle inspection
report from 'Auto Merc', Mercedes-Benz specialists, was carried out
in March 2013 with the general condition described as excellent.
The mileage covered since this report is only some 380 miles.
Finished in its original body colour of white, it boasts a
contrasting red hide interior in very good condition with new red
carpets fitted throughout. The factory hardtop is in good condition
with the black soft top also in very good order. The interior
boasts a period Becker Europa radio and with working
air-conditioning and power steering making this very much a
comfortable motor car to use.� Included in the history file is an
invoice from May 2014 from Mercedes-Benz specialist, Steve Redfearn
of Wimbledon, for a total of �3,512. Works included a full service,
greasing of all suspension points and adjustment of wheel bearings,
installation of new rear axle mounting, full electronic engine
tune, check of all electrical components, new plugs, points and
fuel filter and replacement of wiper rubbers. All carried out with
less than 230 miles covered since the work was completed. A copy of
the Mercedes-Benz data card confirms the original engine is fitted
and confirms the original specification including a leather
interior and black soft top was fitted from new. An original
owner's manual and 'Catalog B' booklet contained in its original
plastic wallet, an original Mercedes-Benz 'products for the
maintenance of cars' booklet and a UK V5C document and a clear HPI
report also accompany the car. An original set of keys are supplied
as well as two spare sets, giving the new keeper peace of mind. The
car was first MoT tested in December 2009 and comes with a further
four certificates and a current MoT certificate valid until June
2018. A fabulous example of a highly collectible and usable
classic, it comes complete with both soft and hard tops. For sale
by auction on Saturday 23 September 2017 with Historics at
Brooklands, Brooklands Motor Racing Circuit, Weybridge, Surrey,
Call 01753 639170
