To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys' Amelia
Island event, 8 - 9 March 2019.
Estimate:
$90,000 - $110,000
- Delicious cappuccino color combination
- Two owners since new; stored in a climate-controlled
facility
- Superbly restored example of popular Pagoda model
- Simply the finest 280 SL available
The 280 SL 'Pagoda,' affectionately named for its innovative hard
top design, remains one of the most popular derivatives of the SL
pedigree. Utilizing lightweight aluminum panels, the 280 SL lived
up to its Sport Leicht acronym and offered unparalleled visibility
belying its muscular structure. Whilst lightweight in build, the
280 SL packed a heavyweight punch with its 2.8-liter inline
six-cylinder engine and multi-port fuel injection, capable of 170
hp and a top speed of 124 mph. For its superb handling, impressive
performance, and unique concave hardtop design, the Pagoda soon
became the preferred place of worship for the Mercedes-Benz
roadster devotee.
This distinctive example was delivered in a cappuccino combination
of Light Beige over Dark Brown leather with matching carpets. It
was purchased by William Stribling, a businessman in Atlanta,
Georgia, for his daughter Marianne for her birthday while she was
attending college. The car was eventually garaged and then in 1992
assigned to marque specialist Laurent DeGive of Buford, Georgia,
for a complete restoration. All aspects of the Mercedes-Benz were
addressed, including a full mechanical rebuild and cosmetic
refurbishment, down to the last detail.
Even the factory-applied 'torque stripes' on the bolts were
replicated to ensure the car was as correct as possible. The Pagoda
emerged seven years and $150,000 later in factory perfect
condition. It was deemed too precious to reside on Marianne's horse
farm and thus remained at the restorer's atelier until it was
acquired by the current owner in August 2011. Since then this 280
SL has been stored in a climate-controlled facility, driven only
100 miles in dry weather and remains in exception condition
throughout.
Accompanied by service records, restoration receipts, and
photographs, this 280 SL represents the ultimate driving classic.
Not only is it a highly collectible investment, this example is
without question the finest Mercedes-Benz Pagoda available.To view
this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please
visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/am19.
