LOT 9
1969 Mercedes-Benz 280SL Chassis no. 113044.10.009229 Engine no. 130980.12.011748 (see text)
Sold for US$84,000 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 9
1969 Mercedes-Benz 280SL
1969 Mercedes-Benz 280SL
Chassis no. 113044.10.009229
Engine no. 130980.12.011748 (see text)
Chassis no. 113044.10.009229
Engine no. 130980.12.011748 (see text)
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
*Factory-equipped with the rare and desirable manual transmission
*Stunning restoration, with recent refurbishments totaling over $41,000
*Presented with both 'Pagoda' hardtop and folding soft top
*Offered with restoration records and a copy of the factory build sheet
THE MERCEDES-BENZ 280SL
In the spring of 1963, Mercedes-Benz debuted an all-new roadster to replace the 190SL and 300SL - the 230SL. The 230SL 'Pagoda' was a stunning Paul Bracq designed two-seat convertible that followed Mercedes' new design language, featuring crisp lines and upright headlights. The 230SL was fitted with a prominent three-pointed star in its grill as a reference to the already iconic 300SL. To save on weight, the hood, door skins, trunk lid, and tonneau cover were all composed of aluminum. The nickname 'Pagoda' was quickly adopted thanks to the slightly concave roof on the optional removable hardtop that resembled a pagoda roof. Although controversial at its introduction, these SLs are now considered a masterpiece of design.
In 1967, Mercedes introduced the third and final iteration of the 'Pagoda', the 280SL, and it then became apparent that some cars don't 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, while its manufacturer considered the 280SL: "a Grand Tourer in the traditional sense" and "a unique combination of sports car performance and saloon car comfort (a Mercedes-Benz saloon naturally)."
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 very charming model with capable handling and braking thanks to its suspension and all-wheel disc brakes. These Roadsters also have one of the most beautiful bodies produced in the 1960s. Thanks to their robust inline-six and their luxurious Mercedes-Benz interior, they are wonderful cars to be driven and enjoyed.
THE MOTORCAR OFFERED
Completed at the Stuttgart-based Mercedes-Benz factory in April of 1969, this stunning example of the classic Pagoda was fitted from new with the desirable, 4-speed manual transmission. With an exquisite restoration and all the right accessories and specifications in place, this European delivery 280SL is among the most desirable and finest examples we have been entrusted with. The striking Mercedes-Benz on offer is finished in the classic silver (DB180) exterior color, over a period correct red leather interior, neatly matched with red German square-weave carpeting. The burgundy convertible top adds great contrast to the silver exterior paint, and the Pagoda roof hardtop is finished in the same silver paint as the rest of the car. The dashboard is adorned by a period-correct Becker radio.
Offered from a prominent Florida-based collection, the Mercedes-Benz has been treated to much refurbishment and restoration work in the past two years by Houston, Texas-based Pagoda specialist Gus Kidonakis and Beverly Hill Motors. Receipts for the work performed can be found in the history file, and totals more than $41,000. All areas of the fine Mercedes-Benz were attended to, including an engine out refurbishment, fuel injection pump rebuild, transmission rebuild and clutch replacement, brake, steering and suspension overhaul, as well as air conditioning system service.
This beautifully restored 280SL fitted with the desirable 4-speed manual transmission from the factory, provides the owner with a sportier driving experience compared to the more common automatic transmission fitted in most of these cars. A correct, 280SL engine is installed, although of a later build date. A highly desirable European specification example, the car is equipped with headlamps that create a truly distinctive look in comparison to the U.S. models that sport round sealed beam headlamps. This beautiful 280SL is in spectacular condition and gives one a feeling of quality craftsmanship.
Saleroom notices
Please note, this vehicle is titled under VIN. WDB11304410009229
Additional information
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