1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Convertible with Hardtop

Registration no. WUU 296J Chassis no. 022648

Footnotes

"Some cars don't change, they just get better. The Mercedes-Benz 280SL, latest version of a line that began as the 230 SL in 1963, is the same as ever, just better," concluded Road & Track after testing a 280 SL 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 280 SL, "a Grand Tourer in the traditional sense2 and "a unique combination of sports car performance and saloon car comfort (a Mercedes-Benz saloon naturally)."

These attributes help explain the 280 SL's phenomenal success, particularly in the all-important North American market where the optional automatic transmission was considered essential by the majority of customers. The fact that it looked like 'sex on wheels' helped enormously too, of course. The 280 SL's user friendliness broadened its appeal beyond the traditional sports car-enthusiast market, with many celebrities and film stars counted among their owners.

The last of a popular and extremely successful line begun with the 230 SL of 1963, the Mercedes-Benz 280 SL was introduced in 1967 powered by a new 2.8-litre six-cylinder engine that produced 180bhp, 20 horsepower more than the preceding 250 SL's. The 280 SL's 120mph top speed was no greater but it was significantly quicker off the mark, its 0-60mph time of 10 seconds being a whole second better than its predecessor's.

Christened 'Pagoda' after their distinctive cabin shape - devised by French designer and classic car enthusiast, Paul Bracq - these SL models were amongst the best-loved sports-tourers of their day and remain highly sought after by collectors.

Delivered new to the USA, this automatic transmission 280 SL spent much of its life there before being taken to Japan by a previous owner (date unknown). Purchased by the vendor in Japan, it was imported into the UK in 2018, MoT'd and UK registered. While in the vendor's enthusiast ownership the car has benefited from a £30,000 cosmetic restoration carried out by Classic Motors, Darlington, which included new floors, a re-spray, etc while the engine was serviced and tuned. Offered with related bills and a V5C document, we are advised this iconic Mercedes now drives beautifully.