Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagode

Mercedes 280SL Pagoda

A Mercedes like Mercedes no longer makes them (unfortunately). A brief explanation of the letter/number combination. 
Mercedes' number combination "280" refers to the vehicle's motorization, in this case the 170-hp 2.8L six-cylinder engine.
Mercedes chose the initials "SL" (Sport Leicht) for its sporty models. Initially applied to the 1952 300SL Gullwing, which could be optionally fitted with an aluminum body, providing a weight savings of no less than 158kg. 

The now almost unaffordable 300 SL models were succeeded by the 190SL. A fun and smooth four-cylinder and only available as a convertible.

After the (rather slow) 190SL, the 230SL (W113) was introduced, popularly called "Pagoda." This is a reference to the shape of the roof that has similarities to the arched Chinese Pagoda roofs. The Pagoda, like the 190SL, is not intended to be an outright sports car like the original 300SL with which it shares the SL name. The Pagoda allows its owner to cover many comfortable miles effortlessly, while enjoying the benefits of the safety of a hardtop with the lifestyle cachet of a softtop. The engine is much more powerful than in the 190 and provides comfortable fast miles, even by modern standards.

As a classic convertible, the Pagoda we offer here is of course ideal for transporting yourself back in time a few years. This great-sounding 6-cylinder, with 4-speed automatic transmission and solid power for its time, is an ideal weekend car for long and short trips. The 280 version was the heaviest engine you could order in the Pagoda at the time.

Like the other W113 models, the 280 used a self-supporting chassis, with front suspension using coil springs and wishbones, while the rear featured a swing axle with single pivot and transverse springs set to compensate for camber. The car had disc brakes all around, which was also not common for cars of this era. 

By the time the 280SL gave way to the next-generation SL, the R107, it had firmly established itself as one of the Stuttgart firm's finest cars. With timeless, graceful styling, spirited performance and handling, unmatched build quality and reliability, the SL series cars built from 1963 to 1971 are solid collectibles whose value appreciation is expected to continue here as well.

The example offered to us has undergone a restoration. Paintwork, technology, interior and hood are in good condition. This gives this Pagode the chic yet sporty appearance it deserves.

Our opinion

Incredible that a car from the sixties drives so well. In Stuttgart they were way ahead of their time. Behind the huge steering wheel you must have felt king of the road back then, and still do by the way. Everything exudes luxury and quality. Not a race car, but a pleasant classic convertible that will keep up well in today's traffic.

About the seller

Our client has purchased the Pagode for his collection, and occasionally nice touring. However, due to lack of time we are now looking for a new lover for this beautiful piece of Mercedes history.

Equipment

• DB 180 Silver gray metallic 
• 131 Black MB Tex 
• 420 Automatic transmission floorshift 
• 422 Power steering 
• 515 Radio Becker Europe, AM-FM 
• 440 Bumper guards 
• 598 Tinted glass 
• 600 Chrome roof bars 
• 641 Radial Whitewall Tires

Recent maintenance history / restoration work

In 2010, this Pagoda was brought to the Netherlands and ended up with a collector. 
Here the Mercedes was restored and made European.

The car comes with a huge folder with all the documentation from its time in America. 
For example, even the original order form has been preserved when it was sold new. But also maintenance bills (from day 1 to 1997.

Modifications

Restored to original condition

Remarks

Minimal traces of use 

Included in sale

• 3 keys
• Documentation

Summary

Seller - Rob
Seller type - Private
Location - Gelderland
Chassis number - 11304412015579
Registration number - PM-61-21
First registration - 28-02-1970
First registration NL - 12-06-2023
Mileage - 51.400 miles
Demonstration - Yes, through documentation
Warranty - No
VAT/Margin car - Margin
Bodywork - Convertible
Engine - 2.8 L six cylinder 
Drive - Rear wheel drive
Transmission - 4 speed automatic transmission
Exterior - Silver metallic
Interior - Black leather
Upholstery - Leather
Smoking car - No
Owners - 1 in NL, previously unknown
Owned since - 12-06-2023
Tires - 14 inch Firestone M+S from 2010 front & rear

The description of this Collectable was created with utmost care, based on the information provided by and validated by the seller. The Collectables performs (pre)selection based on the information provided and consults public sources for any irregularities. However, bidders should ascertain for themselves the correctness of the description and can, if they wish, conduct (or have conducted) personal research. All Collectables on our platform can be subjected to any possible inspection, examination or valuation in advance by buyers, of course in consultation with the seller. Consult our General Terms and Conditions for more details.

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