History and Background
The Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagode was part of the W113 generation, which was introduced in 1963 as the successor to the 190 SL and the six-cylinder 300 SL Roadster. With this series, Mercedes-Benz sought a balance between comfort, performance, and practicality, with an emphasis on safety and ease of use. The 280 SL, which went into production in 1967, was the final and technically most refined model in the W113 series and remained in production until 1971.
The nickname “Pagoda” originated from the characteristic hardtop with its slightly concave roof surface. That design was not only stylistically distinctive but was also linked to safety objectives. Combined with its sleek proportions and clean lines, this resulted in a model that has since become one of the most famous Mercedes-Benz classics. The W113 was built in relatively limited numbers and was particularly popular among an international audience seeking a two-seater convertible with solid construction and a high level of finish.
The 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagoda was part of the European lineup and is equipped with a four-speed manual transmission. Within the W113 series, only a small proportion of vehicles were delivered with a manual transmission, making this configuration less common. This gives the 280 SL in this configuration a distinct place in Mercedes-Benz’s model history.
Features and Details
The 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagode is finished in Signal Red with a black leather interior. The car comes with a hardtop and is equipped with air conditioning. In addition, this 280 SL features a rare optional third seat in the rear. This feature is characteristic of the period when Mercedes-Benz offered certain models with additional options without significantly altering the car’s basic design.
Only about 10 cars from the W113 series were built with a manual transmission. The four-speed manual transmission thus gives this Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagode a less common specification within the series. The combination of European delivery, the manual transmission, the hardtop, and the extra seat makes this example a version with several distinctive factory options.
Various invoices are included with the car. The paintwork shows several imperfections. For a classic model like the Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagode, the combination of documentation and specific configuration is relevant for identifying this example within the W113 generation.
Summary
This 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagode is a European version of the W113 series, featuring a four-speed manual transmission, hardtop, air conditioning, and a rare third rear seat. The car is finished in Signal Red with a black leather interior and comes with various invoices. The paintwork shows several imperfections. To get a good idea of the lot, we recommend that you attend the viewing day.
PLEASE NOTE: This car is being auctioned online by Classic Car Auctions.
This car is being offered in the Classics Sports Cars Summer Auction. The car is available for viewing during the viewing days. The listed amount represents the lower end of the estimated value. Bidding starts at 25,000.
Bid now via:
www.classiccar-auctions.com/en/lot-details/34670
Auction
- Opening: Friday, July 24, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
- Closing: Wednesday, August 19, 2026, starting at 8:00 p.m.
Location
Anthony Fokkerweg 7
1422 AE Uithoorn
The Netherlands
Viewing Days
- Friday, August 14, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- Tuesday, August 18, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
For more information about the auction, viewing days, and the full selection, visit:
www.classiccar-auctions.com
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Transportation
After the auction, we can arrange transportation.
- Within the Netherlands: €250, excluding VAT.
- Outside the Netherlands: transportation upon request.
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