Skip to main content

LOT 114

1970 Mercedes-Benz 280SL Chassis no. 113044.12.015285

Estimate: US$175,000 - US$200,000
Lot 114

1970 Mercedes-Benz 280SL

1970 Mercedes-Benz 280SL
Chassis no. 113044.12.015285

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

* Beautiful restored example of the seminal W113
* Elegant color scheme Silver Gray Metallic over Black
* Nicely optioned with Becker radio and Frigiking A/C
* Hard top and Soft Top



THE MERCEDES-BENZ 280SL

In the Spring of 1963, Mercedes-Benz debuted an all-new roadster to replace the 190SL and 300SL- The 230SL. Internally designated W113, 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, affixed to a rigid steel monocoque. The car's distinctive concave-shaped removable hard top quickly earned it the nickname 'Pagoda.' 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 had abundant character and practicality, with capable handling and braking thanks to touring-biased suspension and all-wheel disc brakes. These open-top roadsters also have one of the most beautiful bodies produced in the 1960s, and thanks to their robust inline-six and luxurious interior appointments, are wonderful cars to drive and enjoy.


THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This beautifully presented example of the final and highly desirable iteration of the W113 has been the subject of careful ownership and lavish spending. Finished in Silver Gray Metallic over Black upholstery, it spent many years in a private collection. While in that owner's care, that the car was carefully restored to the gorgeous condition it is in today. Clearly the subject of an open checkbook, the paint and chrome show nicely and the engine compartment is well detailed to a similarly high standard. Authentic touches include painted & polished full wheel covers, whitewall Michelin tires, and desirable European headlamps.

Both driver and passenger are greeted by a richly appointed, authentically restored cockpit. Correct MB Tex seats and door cards show nicely while both occupants ride in comfort thanks to original Frigiking A/C and Becker Europa radio providing the niceties one expects in a refined, grand-touring convertible. Nicely finished gauges, restored woodwork, and black loop carpeting round out the cabin.

Complete with both its black soft top and color-matched hard top for the classic 'Pagoda' look, this swift grand tourer includes a full size spare and tool roll in the trunk. Between its stunning presentation, renowned mechanical refinement and fine interior appointments, this 280SL is prefect for any cruise, drive, or show.

Additional information

Own a similar item?

Submit your item online for a free auction estimate.

How to sell

Looking for a similar item?

Our Cars specialists can help you find a similar item at an auction or via a private sale.

Find your local specialist

Specialist section

Auction Viewings

  • 1 March 2023, 09:00 - 19:00 EST
  • 2 March 2023, 09:00 - 10:00 EST

Bid now on these items

1938 Jaguar SS100 2.5 Roadster
Denmark

1938 Jaguar SS100 2.5 Roadster

DKK1,200,000 - DKK1,600,000
2005 Porsche Paul Stephens Lightweight PS 300 R Prototype.
Denmark

2005 Porsche Paul Stephens Lightweight PS 300 R Prototype.

DKK800,000 - DKK950,000
1904 Darracq 10hp Twin-Cylinder Swing-Seat Tonneau
United Kingdom

1904 Darracq 10hp Twin-Cylinder Swing-Seat Tonneau

£150,000 - £200,000