1965 MERCEDES BENZ 230SL LHD
DATE OF MANUFACTURE: 1965 | COLOUR: BURGUNDY RED | INTERIOR TRIM: BLACK MB TEX
LUX CLASSICS ARE DELIGHTED TO OFFER THIS LHD MERCEDES-BENZ 230SL PAGODA, A TRUE DRIVER'S CAR BENEFITING FROM A FRESH PAINT OVER ITS TOTALLY ORIGINAL FACTORY BODY
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.
THIS VEHICLE
With original delivery to the dry climate USA Islands, this Pagoda’s original bodyshell has been very well preserved and is the best we have seen in years. Original factory panels are still in place throughout, as evidenced by the factory spot welds.
With its free-revving 2,300cc five main bearing engine producing excellent torque, this is a true driver’s car. With a precise gear shift and non-power assisted steering, it’s very responsive, offering a much sharper driving experience than the more leisurely automatic 280SL. A delight to drive, and in our opinion the best way to own a Pagoda.
The four-speed manual transmission is a delight to use and would be well suited to taking this Pagoda on European rallies, and the soft clutch makes for an equally appealing classic for town driving.
Recent works include:
• Component off repaint
• Dash retrim
• Chrome plating
• Engine bay detail
• Cosmetic refresh
Its eye-catching road presence and appealing period aura is completed with the Blockley white wall tyres – the best available and the correct size.
Currently under preparation for sale. It will come well sorted and ready for the next owner to enjoy.
WARRANTY & FINANCE AVAILABLE
On sale on behalf of its owner as a consignment sale.
MODEL HISTORY & PRODUCTION
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. Also recognised by its clean, straight lines and large Mercedes-Benz star in the grille, this SL was available as a convertible with a hard top and soft folding roof. It had virtually nothing in common with its predecessors, with its chassis based on that of the 220SE (W111) saloon modified to offer a sportier feel.
The bonnet was styled with a slight bulge to accommodate the straight six cylinder engine, again developed from that in the saloon. Developing for the 230SL / 250SL 170 HP (SAE) at 5,600 rpm & 280SL 195 HP at 6,500 rpm with mechanical multi-port fuel injection produced a very smooth power delivery. Paired with the standard four-speed manual transmission, the W113 SL’s also offered an optional extra four-speed automatic transmission too & 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.
The Pagoda proved to be a sound foundation for all subsequent SLs: An exceptional blend of good performance with the highest levels of comfort, with some 48,912 built between 1963 - 1971.
