The Mercedes-Benz 230SL Pagoda was introduced in 1963 as the successor to the 190SL and marked the beginning of the W113 series. Designed under the direction of Paul Bracq, it is known for its distinctive hardtop with a concave roofline, earning it the nickname "Pagoda." The 230SL was developed as a sporty grand tourer offering higher levels of comfort and technology than its predecessor, aligning with Mercedes-Benz's luxury positioning at the time.
This model combined a relatively compact body with modern safety features, including a reinforced passenger cell and a meticulously engineered chassis. The 230SL was produced in 1964 during the early years of the W113 series, before the introduction of the 250SL and 280SL. Over 48,000 units of the W113 family were built, with the 230SL serving as the first and defining model of this line.
The 230SL Pagoda occupied a special place in Mercedes-Benz’s market, balancing comfort and sportiness. It was offered as a roadster with a removable hardtop and fabric convertible top, targeting an international audience that valued refinement and distinctive design. As a result, the Mercedes-Benz 230SL Pagoda remains a classic car of the 1960s.
This Mercedes-Benz 230SL Pagoda is in neat, largely original condition. The paint and chrome are in good shape. The leather interior is original but shows some imperfections. It is equipped with the original Becker Europa TR radio and comes with the original hardtop.
Powered by an inline six-cylinder engine with mechanical fuel injection, the 230SL features technology characteristic of Mercedes-Benz at the time, contributing to its refined character. The W113's design is understated yet meticulous, with the hardtop shape and technical finish marking its transition to a more mature interpretation of the sporty Mercedes-Benz roadster.
For collectors, the originality of parts and configuration is important. The included hardtop and original Becker Europa TR radio help identify this 230SL Pagoda as a model that retains many factory-original elements.
The 1964 Mercedes-Benz 230SL Pagoda is an early example of a model that holds a permanent place in Mercedes-Benz history. With its largely original condition, original leather interior, original radio, and hardtop, this car offers an authentic representation of the W113 series. Viewing is recommended to appreciate its condition.
This car is being auctioned online by Classic Car Auctions in the "Classics Sports Cars Summer Auction." The auction opens on Friday, July 24, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. and closes on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, starting at 8:00 p.m. The car is available for viewing on August 14 and August 18 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Anthony Fokkerweg 7, 1422 AE Uithoorn, The Netherlands.
The starting bid is €25,000, with the estimated value at the lower end. Bidding can be done online at www.classiccar-auctions.com/en/lot-details/34654. For more information about the auction, viewing days, and transportation options, visit www.classiccar-auctions.com.
