1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SL

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

*Beautifully presented, California-delivered example of the classic 280SL Pagoda
*Rare 'California Coupe' example equipped with factory Hard Top
*Well-documented car with service records dating back to 1972
*Timeless Paul Bracq design

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 230 SL 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 are 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. 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.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This Mercedes-Benz Pagoda is a delightful example of the fully evolved 280SL, featuring disc brakes and the larger 2.8-Liter fuel injected straight six engine. Produced during February of 1972 - the legendary models final production year - the 280SL is finished in a beautiful Golden Metallic color, with a color-coded Pagoda Hard Top and Cognac-colored interior. Air conditioning and a classic Becker Europa radio is situated in the dash. Original purchase documents and service records document the car as having been delivered to California from new, and if one is looking for the perfect all-around classic, this 280SL may very well be an excellent choice. These are well-built cars, with ample power, and a timeless look.