Vehicle Description
1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SL "Pagoda" Roadster � Designer: Friedrich
Geiger � Chassis Number:11304412020122 � Decoded: 113=SL;
044=280SL; 1=LHD; 2=Automatic; 020122=Unit Sequence � � Engine:
2778cc, OHC -n-line 6-cylinder Bosch Fuel Injection/195 bhp 4-Speed
Automatic Transmission Four Wheel Hydraulic Disc Brakes � Odometer:
75,900 miles � Last Year of Pagoda styled SL's Includes Both Soft
and Hard Tops � The Model -When the first "Pagoda" models hit the
market in 1963, they were worlds ahead of their predecessor. While
cute, the 190SL, which looked like a baby brother to the 300SL,
lacked some of the refinements found with the next generation. The
first 230SL had more power, a tuned suspension and really was a
true sports car in every sense of the word. A couple of years later
the 250SL was released and finally the most impressive of all the
280SL. Whether or not it was the aim of this German automaker to
target the American market, over half of the 23,885 280SL's
produced ended up in the USA. Given the nickname "Pagoda", because
many felt the removable hardtop had a resemblance of those Japanese
structures, they were loved by those who knew fine automobiles. The
280SLs were powerful and properly balanced, agile and so easy to
maneuver that almost anyone could pilot one of these roadsters.
280SL owners praised their performance, style and comfort when they
were new, while connoisseurs of the finest automobiles today
continue to offer those same accolades on a truly superb design.
With production of the Pagoda styled SL's coming to a halt in 1971,
it was the end of a golden era at Daimler-Benz. � The Car - In the
"Pagoda" Mercedes final incarnation, the 280SL featured more power,
a retuned suspension and creature comforts than its predecessors.
This example was produced during October 1970 and has been well
sorted out. Finished in Snow White it is fitted with comfortable
tan leather seats that appear to be nearly new. It is equipped with
a matching color removable hardtop and a fresh and snug fitting
black soft top. Among the interior appoints is a full assortment of
gauges plus a very hard to find Becker Mexico AM-FM-Cassette sound
system. This 280SL was recently serviced and it is reported the
fuel-injections system, one of the most reliable ever produced, is
in excellent working order. Handling is reported to be quite
responsive and the sounds from that come from that in-line six are
nearly silent. The engine bay is all in order and presents better
than when this car was new sitting on the showroom floor. As the
value of these 280SL's continue to rise these are cars should not
be hidden away but driven and enjoyed. An outstanding example of
the last of a breed from Mercedes-Benz, do not overlook this
beauty. � �
