Vehicle Description
Modernly styled in an upright fashion with an elongated, unbroken
profile line from front to rear, the 230SL helped bring
Mercedes-Benz into a new age. The styling was clean and both
ingress and egress were easy, but more importantly, the new
roadster boasted a fuel-injected 6-cylinder engine that provided
vigorous modern performance. With a product life that spanned 1963
to 1971, the W113 evolved later into the 250SL and 280SL, but many
enthusiasts agree the early 230SLs offer the simple fun that best
captures the creator's original intention. The early cars are rare
and have progressed into an investment that provides driving
pleasure and is relatively easy to maintain with parts readily
available from Mercedes-Benz. This particular 230SL features a
stylish tan interior that brings an element of luxury to the sporty
convertible without sacrificing the straightforward aura that is
the reason these early SLs are so well regarded. From the bucket
seats to the simple 4-speed manual-transmission floor shifter with
a small wooden box headed by an ashtray offering up console
hospitality, the interior exudes hospitality. The German carpets
are cut and edged in matching vinyl and the dashboard hosts a clock
and Blaupunkt radio balancing out the sophisticated, but forthright
car. The 2.3-liter inline 6-cylinder engine is well detailed,
nestled in a clean engine bay with forward-looking features like
multi-port fuel injection with a mechanical pump system derived
from the robust Mercedes-Benz diesel systems providing for a
reliable nature. The power brakes and rear independent suspension
encourage a spirited and confident driving experience while the
bumper-mounted driving lights further the element of security,
particularly in the dark of night. The slightly off-white color,
small hubcaps and chrome trim rings on color-matched wheels sustain
again the simplicity of these early W113s and help to ensure their
continued popularity among SL fans.•Produced between 1963-1967 •Co
