1968 Mercedes-Benz 280SL

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

*Gorgeous color scheme 'Triple Green'
*Equipped with both 'Pagoda' hard top and folding soft top
*Delivered new to the United States
*High-quality restoration, well-preserved


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, 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 magnificent 280SL, also known as 'Pagoda', restored in a rare and stunning color combination of 'Triple Green', has spent most of its life in Southern California.
According to the previous owner, the restoration was done over a period of three years from 2014 to 2017 with no expenses spared. Single family ownership for over 45 years and believed to have a total of 4 owners since new.
This car has mostly been in private collections for the last few decades.

This 280SL is equipped with the original grain, correct Mercedes leather and is optioned as follows: US Version, outside rear-view mirror (left side), radio Becker Grand Prix, automatic floor shift transmission, and power steering wheel. It has been recently serviced and test driven by one of our specialists; the car runs and drives smoothly as it should.