1969 MERCEDES EBNZ 280SL RHD AUTOMATIC CALIFORNIAN COUPE W113 PAGODA
DATE OF MANUFACTURE: 1969 | COLOUR: HORIZON BLUE (DB304) | HORIZON BLUE (DB304) HARD TOP | INTERIOR TRIM: CREAM
THIS 280SL IS BEING OFFERED FOR SALE FOR PURCHASE. MATCHING NUMBERS, JUST OUT OF FOUR YEARS STORAGE. RUNNING AND DRIVING.
THE APPEAL
With its timeless appeal, the W113 Pagoda is the definitive collectible Mercedes-Benz – a handsomely proportioned car, technically ahead of its time and incredibly well-engineered. Costing nearly twice as much as an E-Type when new, its elegance, reliability and sporting prowess became an instant attraction for the rich and famous – notable past owners include John Lennon, Sophia Loren, Charlton Heston and Sir Stirling Moss.
HIGHLIGHTS
- LOVELY PERIOD COLOUR COMBINATION IN HORIZON BLUE
- RIGHT HAND DRIVE WITH DESIRABLE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- RARE 2+2 CALIFORNIAN COUPE WITH REMOVABLE HARD TOP AND SMALL REAR BENCH SEAT
- APPEARS TO HAVE HAD LOTS SPENT AND APPEARS TO BE VERY SOLID
- MATCHING NUMBERS PAINT AND ENGINE, WITH COLOUR CHANGE OF ITS ORIGINAL NAVY BLUE INTERIOR TO CREAM
- MATCHING HARD TOP PRESENT
- HISTORY FILE AND COPY OF FACTORY DATACARD PRESENT
- RUNNING AND HAS BEEN OFF THE ROAD FOR FOUR YEARS SO WILL COME WITH A FULL SERVICE
- CAN BE VIEWED AT OUR SHOWROOM IN GREAT LEIGHS, ESSEX
On sale on behalf of its owner as a consignment sale.
MODEL HISTORY
The 230SL (W113) was launched at the Geneva Motor Show in 1963 as a replacement for its predecessors, the 190SL and 300SL. The 230SL was updated in November 1966 to the 250SL and in November 1967 to the last production series as a 280SL.
With its inwardly facing roof curvature and many analogies with Far Eastern Temples, these models soon became better known as the ‘Pagoda’. They were however relatively easy to get in and out of due the tall nature of the roof. The W113’s clean, elegant straight lines typify the work of its lead designer - the legendary Paul Bracq. It had virtually nothing in common with its predecessors, with only the chassis based on that of the 220SE (W111) saloon modified to offer a sportier feel. It was available as a convertible with a hard top and soft folding roof.
The bonnet was styled with a slight bulge to accommodate the straight six cylinder engine, again developed from that in the saloon. Developing 148 hp for the 230SL and 168 hp for the 280SL with mechanical multi-port fuel injection it produced a very smooth power delivery. It was offered with standard four-speed manual, or an optional extra four-speed automatic transmission too, and later with the ZF five-speed manual transmission.
With recirculating ball steering, a dual-circuit brake system, gas-filled shock absorbers and radial ply tyres, it offered a sporty feeling with exceptional handling due to its taut chassis, but also a very compliant ride too. The Pagoda was the first ever sports car to come with a ‘safety body’. It had a rigid passenger cell and designated crumple zones with impact-absorbing front and rear sections built into the vehicle structure.
ARRANGE A VIEWING
This vehicle is available for viewing in the UK on an appointment basis, and would suit an enthusiast or collector with whom this vehicle will represent a good acquisition opportunity to bring to the next level & priced to sell.
