Vehicle Description
As the 300SL and 190SL production ended in the early 1960s,
Mercedes-Benz consolidated the SL sports car concept into a single
line. The 300SL was already a legend but was complex and expensive
to produce. The 190SL was high on style but lacked the performance
to challenge more sporting competitors. When launched in 1963, the
new W113 series aimed to blend style, sophistication, and
performance at a more reasonable price point. Like the 190SL
before, the new 230SL chassis shared standard components with the
contemporary sedan line to keep production costs in check.
Mercedes-Benz's design team, led by the brilliant Paul Bracq,
created a crisp, minimally-adorned monocoque body with exquisite
detailing. From day one, the W113 was designed with a removable
hardtop, to which Bracq added a subtle concave top panel, earning
it the nickname "Pagoda." Upon introduction, the new SL was a
sports car like no other on the market, combining the open-air
experience of a traditional roadster with the insulated comfort and
practicality of a continental GT cruiser. It boasted a spacious,
comfortable cockpit, capacious boot, was built to Mercedes typical
vault-like quality and delivered impressive performance in a
refined and understated package. The final evolution of the W113
arrived in 1968 with the 2.8-liter 280SL. Beautifully refined and
with build quality that only a Mercedes-Benz can boast, the 280SL
is a lively and enjoyable sports car that effortlessly plays the
role of a sophisticated grand tourer. While the 280SL is less
aggressive than some competitors, it is surprisingly capable when
the going gets twisty, thanks to a finely tuned independent
front/swing-axle rear suspension. The robust Bosch-injected
overhead-cam inline-six produced ample torque, and while the vast
majority of cars left the factory gates equipped with a four-speed
automatic, a 4-speed manual was optional, providing a sporty edge
to the SL's relaxed GT-like demeanor. This 1970 280SL roadster is
an excellent example of the breed, crisply presented in silver over
black trim. It is a beautifully restored car equipped with the
desirable automatic transmission and air conditioning, with an
emphasis on driving enjoyment, making it the ideal pick for the
enthusiast seeking the authentic all-around Pagoda experience. This
car spent many years in a private collection, was treated to
extensive restoration work, and is now offered in superb condition,
equally suited to the show field or the open road. The excellent
body is well-defined, with consistent gaps, straight panels, and
excellent silver paintwork. Exterior chrome and polished trim are
superbly restored, and the car rides on the proper steel wheels
with polished and color-keyed wheel covers and correct narrow-band
whitewall tires. Doors open and shut with precision, and the car
includes both a black canvas soft top and a restored matching
silver hardtop. With the Pagoda SL, Mercedes-Benz puts passenger
comfort above outright sportiness, and this 280SL is a lovely place
to spend the day. This car features black upholstery, matching
black carpets, and excellent restored wood trim. The seats and soft
trim are in fine order, displaying minimal signs of use. Similarly,
the dash is in superb condition, housing correct instruments,
original air conditioning, and a period-correct Becker radio. The
boot features the proper rubber floor liner and houses the
full-size spare wheel and factory tool roll. Mercedes-Benz's superb
2.8-liter overhead cam inline-six is undoubtedly one of the finest
engines of the period. Offering robust torque and power, the 2.8
also had superior refinement and drivability thanks to the fitment
of Bosch mechanical fuel injection in the SL. Like most Pagodas,
this example is equipped with the excellent four-speed automatic
gearbox, which suits the 280SL's relaxed, grand-touring character.
The engine compartment is immaculate and highly detailed, with the
correct finishes on the prominent cam cover and the intake plenum.
Correct labels and decals are present, as are proper hose clamps
and the firewall insulation pad. Out on the road, this 280SL is
sure-footed and a delight to drive. The steering feels direct yet
light, thanks to well-judged power assistance, and the engine,
gearbox, and brakes all work with the solidity and poise expected
of a classic Mercedes-Benz. Beautifully restored, well sorted, and
highly detailed, this gorgeous 280SL is the perfect example for its
next owner to drive to a show, display with pride, and enjoy the
experience of taking the long way home. Offers welcome and trades
considered For additional details please view this listing directly
on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7305-1970-mercedes-benz-280sl-roadster/
