Vehicle Description
Chassis No. 113.044.12.020026
Codenamed W113, the Mercedes-Benz "Pagoda" made its debut as the
230 SL at the 1963 Frankfurt Auto Show, introducing a new era for
the brand's luxury sports convertibles. The new SL placed a strong
emphasis on safety, comfort, and refined driving dynamics without
sacrificing its sporting character. At its heart was a Bosch
fuel-injected 2.3-liter six-cylinder engine producing 150
horsepower, paired with independent front suspension, and
servo-assisted front disc brakes complemented by rear drums.
Styling played a significant role in the W113's wide-ranging
appeal, with Paul Bracq and Bela Barenyi, alongside Friedrich
Geiger-the designer of the famed 300 SL and 540 K-shaping its
elegant yet purposeful design. The car earned its "Pagoda" nickname
thanks to its distinctive concave removable hardtop, which provided
exceptional visibility with a large glass area and allowed for
versatile, all-weather driving. The upright roofline, featuring
raised edges with a lower center section, drew comparisons to
Japanese pagodas while enhancing the car's structural integrity in
the event of a rollover.
The W113 evolved further with the introduction of the 250 SL in
1967, offering refinements to braking and handling, before reaching
its final and most developed form with the 280 SL in 1968. The 280
SL featured a larger 2.8-liter inline-six-cylinder engine, now
producing 180 horsepower with increased torque, providing a notable
improvement in drivability and responsiveness. Interiors received
additional upgrades, including subtle improvements that further
elevated the SL's comfort and sophistication.
Built in July 1970 and finished in vibrant Signal Red (568), this
280 SL remains a charming example today. The car features a set of
iconic painted hubcaps in matching Signal Red, as well as a
removable hard top with an electrically heated rear window for all
weather touring use. Inside, the interior is trimmed in Black
MB-Tex with the correct style of Black square-weave carpeting, a
Becker Europa radio, manual windows, and a lockable glove
compartment. Power comes from a 2.8-liter "M130" fuel-injected
inline-six paired with a four-speed automatic transmission and
power steering for added convenience. With elegant sixties styling,
this classic 280 SL "Pagoda" is an attractive example of a
well-engineered and highly sought-after Mercedes-Benz.
