1970 Mercedes-Benz 280SL

2,778cc SOHC Inline 6-Cylinder Engine
Bosch Mechanical Fuel Injection
160bhp at 5,700rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes

*Timeless 'Pagoda' Mercedes
*Matching hardtop
*Fitted with air conditioning system and elegant Becker radio

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

In 1967, Mercedes-Benz introduced the third and final iteration of the "Pagoda," the 280SL, and it then became apparent that some cars do not change, they just get better. "The Mercedes-Benz 280SL, the latest version of a line that began as the 230SL in 1963, is the same as ever, just better," concluded Road & Track after testing a 280SL in 1968. "For those who value engineering, finesse and high-quality construction, it's alone in the field," enthused the highly respected American motoring magazine.

The 280 featured the same modified W111 chassis with a rear swing axle and independent front suspension and four-wheel disc brakes. Power came from a 2.8-liter version of Mercedes' robust inline-six and used Bosch fuel injection, a combination producing 160 horsepower in US-market variants, which had to be modified slightly to comply with emissions standards. To compensate, the rear-end ratios were changed in these US-market cars to offer greater low-end acceleration.

While the 280SL did not offer the performance of the 300SL, it is a charming model with capable handling and braking accredited to its suspension and discs all around. These quality-built roadsters also have one of the most beautiful bodies produced in the 1960s. Thanks to their robust inline-six and luxurious Mercedes interior, they are wonderful cars to be driven and enjoyed.

This white over beige 280SL looks to be a largely original machine. Originally painted Tobacco Brown, it received a later repaint to its current configuration—but that work did not include the remove the of the engine. The other major change for original is the addition of a Frigiking air conditioning system—likely a dealer installed feature.

The interior is nicely presented and original, down to the highly sought-after Becker radio still in the dash. Not much used in recent years, it would benefit from recommissioning prior to active use.

From the point of introduction, the W113 has been praised for both its attractive looks and technical advancements and will surely continue to be a desired motorcar by enthusiasts for decades to come.