Vehicle Description
To be OFFERED AT AUCTION at Auctions America’s Hilton Head event, November 5, 2016.
Chassis No.
230SL016103
Estimate:
$ 70,000 - $ 75,000 US
The encore to the Mercedes-Benz 190SL and 300SL was first introduced at the 1963 Frankfurt Auto Show as the 230SL, internally referred to as the W113. This fine example represents one of the last from the production years for the Mercedes 230SL. The 230SL was in production from June 1963 until January 1967. During this timeframe a total of 19,831 are reported to have been produced, but the same source (in this case the Pagoda SL Group) shows that only 185 units rolled off the production floor in Germany. With Mercedes-Benz selling to 158 different countries in 1967; approximately one-quarter of these are said to have been targeted for the U.S. marketplace.
The 230SL gained the nickname “Pagoda” due to the beauty and design of its optional removable hardtop and continues to be referred to as such. “Motor” magazine effused that “It is so well engineered, that it doesn’t look as if it should come off.”
Along with its later variations, the 250SL and the 280SL, this model comprised the third generation of the Super Leicht models that began with the esteemed 300SL in the early 1950s. Although it was intended predominantly as a touring car, the 230SL achieved modest success in the Liege-Sofia-Liege Rally, proving that it had the sporting capabilities of its counterparts. With the performance of these vehicles and the timeless styling still seen in many modern day grand touring cars, the Mercedes 230SL was an instant classic in European motoring.
This is by all accounts an outstanding one owner 1967 Mercedes-Benz 230SL that is in “all original condition that has never been restored.” Immediately seen to have a wonderful pedigree, this “Pagoda” also is presented in the appealing tones of Light Beige with its reported factory original red leather interior. The Pagoda hardtop is also included. The 230SL is powered by a Bosch fuel-injected 2,308-cc, 150-hp inline six-cylinder engine that is matched to the optional fluid-coupled Daimler-Benz four-speed automatic transmission. This model was the first Mercedes-Benz automobile to be fitted with an alternator as standard equipment. Another feature on the SL was that it had one of the industry's first uses of a multi-purpose control stalk for lights and wipers. Color-keyed factory hubcaps look perfectly suited to the tasteful whitewall tires, a white steering wheel is fitted, and the 230SL also has a radio. Front disc brakes and rear hydraulic drums provide the stopping power.
The current owner states that the the factory tool kit and pouch are included, along with the original owner's manual and comprehensive maintenance records. The owners also conveys that this car has not been exposed to harsh weather environments, but has lived its life in California which allowed it to avoid common rust issues.
In a prophetic advertisement, Mercedes-Benz avowed; “There are old cars. And then there are classics.” This car fits their proposition.
