Mercedes-Benz W113 280 SL Pagoda extensive restoration from 2nd hand automatic hardtop (1969)

Vehicle description

Model history:

It is one of the most sought-after Mercedes classics. It is far cheaper than a 300 SL Roadster and much more exclusive than its successor, the R 107. The Pagoda, first shown in 1963 as the 230 SL at the Geneva Motor Show, quickly won the hearts of well-heeled ladies and discerning gentlemen. In terms of price, it was always on par with the Porsche 911, but thanks to the hardtop, it is both a convertible and a coupé. Technically, it was embodied by the W 111 without a roof and with a shortened wheelbase. In eight years, almost 49,000 units of the W 113 were built. Three models – 230 SL, 250 SL and 280 SL – came together over the years. The name pagoda was actually inspired by Buddhist temples with concave roofs and was synonymous with the inwardly curved hardtop of the W 113.

General information about the vehicle:

The Mercedes-Benz W 113 released for auction in this auction is the 280 SL model, which was first registered in the USA in August 1969 and bears chassis number 113044120392. Only 2 owners have owned this roadster over the years, matching numbers are given and in addition to a valid TÜV - which runs until June 2025 - this Mercedes-Benz, which has already been restored, already has an H license plate. After consultation with the seller, the mileage is traceable, a checkbook is not available. Also worth mentioning is a valuation report from September 2019, in which this 280 SL was certified as having a sales value of € 130,000 and a condition grade of 2+.

Exterior paint/paint/body:

Externally, the Pagoda, which is kept in white, is in an apparently very good condition - according to the seller, there are no modifications to the body and the paint, which was already completely new, can be said to have a very good appearance. All chrome parts on the vehicle still shine as they should and inconsistencies on the exterior are not to be mentioned according to the seller - he also confirms that the car is accident-free. Further details regarding the body and the paint condition of this Mercedes-Benz W 113 can be found in the meaningful pictures.

Exterior rims/brakes/chassis:

At 70-90% of the condition, the current owner assesses the tires and brakes - he is not aware of any major defects in the area of the chassis. The graceful look of the 280 SL is also enhanced by the whitewall tyres, which are mounted on steel rims with chrome hubcaps.

Interior:

When you open the doors of this pagoda, the black leather seats, but also the ivory-colored two-spoke steering wheel - which has a chrome ring - immediately catch the eye. According to the seller, no gross inconsistencies, damage or even missing parts can be taken from the interior. The window panes are operated by hand crank and a contemporary radio ensures a well-rounded original appearance in the interior of this 280 SL from first registration in 1969. In order to convince yourself of the overall condition of the interior of the W 113, we recommend reviewing the many photos of the vehicle.

Mileage:

The mileage of this pagoda can also be read from the round instruments set in chrome - the speedometer is only five digits, but the seller states that the total mileage of this 280 SL is 109,000 kilometers. All gauges in the dashboard work perfectly.

Engine:

From a displacement of 2.8 litres, this 280 SL generates an output of 170 hp - the in-line six-cylinder engine transmits its power to the rear wheels via a 4-speed automatic transmission. This Mercedes-Benz underwent a final service in 2022.

Subsoil:

The current owner of the car describes the underbody as rustproof, unwelded and preserved - a cavity sealant was also used on the underside. A 280 SL from the 113 model series combines sportiness, comfort and safety at the highest level - a subtle colour combination, the good technical and visual condition and the elegance of this roadster speak for themselves. In addition, this 280 SL has a hardtop in body color, which means that the car looks just as elegant when closed as it does when open.

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