1970 Mercedes-Benz 280SL

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

* Rare ZF 5-Speed Manual Transmission
* Rare color Scheme Silver Gray Metallic over Berry Red
* Matching Numbers engine and gearbox per data card
* Hard top and Soft Top
* Original window sticker price


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 Cabriolet 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 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-Benz 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 SOHC 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 open-top Cabriolets also have one of the most beautiful bodies produced in the 1960s, and thanks to their robust inline-six and luxurious Mercedes-Benz interior, are wonderful cars to drive and enjoy.


THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This unique and special 280SL is not only one of the most sought-after color combinations, Sliver Gray Metallic over Berry red but also one of the rarest fitted with a ZF 5 Speed Gearbox from the factory, an option that was available new in the U.S and we believe that only 882 examples were produced- the majority of them in 1968 until 1970.
Delivered new in 1970 by Simonson Mercedes- Benz in Santa Monica California featured with these following options, ZF Manual Transmission 5-Speed Floor Shift, Power Steering Wheel, bumper with guards, front and rear, tinted glass, Whitewall tires and a Black Soft top. Sold for a total amount of $8,489 according to the original built sheet and the window sticker price.
Believe to be under only 2 ownerships, California car its entire life, it was bought from the original owner and under the same ownership since 1992.
Unmolested and very original car still retains most of its original paint, clean and dry undercarriage.
The 2 front seats have been re-upholstered with leather in a correct red Berry from the factory.
Matching numbers engine and gearbox per data card, this 280SL will be delivered with its original window sticker price, service book, owner's manual, original Hard-top, tool kit, jack and a spare tire.
Recently serviced by its current owner in February 2022 this unique and highly collectible is ready to be enjoyed or to be added to a car collection.