Model history:

After the two extremes, the 300 SL and 190 SL, the roadster tradition of the Untertürkheim-based company was given a new accent in 1963. The Mercedes-Benz, known as the W 113, was presented for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show, and was designed as an elegant second car for a well-heeled clientele. A timeless, sporty design, a sophisticated soft top construction, a perfectly fitting hardtop and tight engines characterized the so-called "Pagoda". A total of almost 50,000 units of the W 113 were built between 1963 and 1971 with the 230 SL, 250 SL and 280 SL models. Incidentally, this Mercedes-Benz was given the nickname Pagoda because of the shape of the hardtop: its inward-looking curve is reminiscent of Far Eastern temple buildings.

General information about the vehicle:

In this auction there is now the possibility to purchase a Mercedes-Benz 280 SL of the 113 series from first registration in 1964, which was registered in Germany and has only 4 owners over the years. Although this pagoda already has an H license plate and the TÜV is valid until May 2024, the history of the car can no longer be traced due to missing documents. However, the seller notes that the 280 SL has already undergone a partial restoration.

Exterior paint/paint/body:

In terms of paintwork, the Mercedes-Benz is kept in classic black - after consultation with the current owner, it was found out that the vehicle had already undergone a complete repainting. The chrome on the car still shines as it should and there are no inconsistencies regarding the add-on parts - in addition, the exterior is apparently in an original and unmodified condition. The fabric top of this pagoda is crack-free. According to the seller, the fabric roof from the Sonnenland brand was new in 2019. For more details, please refer to the meaningful pictures and videos of this vehicle.

Exterior rims/brakes/chassis:

In addition to the black paint color, the chrome hubcaps, which are centered in body color and are attached to original steel rims, ensure the external appearance. According to the seller, new tires were only recently (2019) mounted on the Mercedes-Benz and the current owner certifies that the brake system is in condition of 70-90%, and he is not aware of any defects in terms of chassis technology. The steering knuckles at the front were replaced in 2023 and are therefore in mint condition.

Interior:

In the interior, it continues with black: leather seats adorn the interior together with a large 2-spoke steering wheel and a noble dashboard. Among other things, there is a radio as an equipment feature on board this pagoda, furthermore, the seller mentions that a hardtop is in good condition and will be given. All instruments and controls inside the 280 SL work without any problems and the manually operated soft top can also be opened and locked again perfectly. Coarse signs of wear or even missing parts are not to be complained about in the interior.

Mileage:

The filigree instruments on the dashboard and in the driver's direct field of vision are set in chrome: the speedometer shows a mileage of 56,000 kilometres.

Engine:

M 130 is the designation of the internal engine type of the 2.8-liter inline six-cylinder engine, which sends 170 hp to the rear axle via a manual transmission. The vehicle also got a new 5-speed gearbox in 2019. The original is available and will be handed in. The last service took place in May 2021.

Subsoil:

Except for slight flash rust, there are no rust spots on the underbody, according to the seller - this pagoda has already been welded after consultation with the current owner. In view of the vehicle's age of almost 50 years, this Mercedes-Benz can be said to have a clean and well-preserved condition. This 280 SL offered here features the top-of-the-range engine of the 113 series, and the car also shines in classic nobility with a pinch of sportiness thanks to its black colour combination of exterior/interior/soft top.