Richard Stafford
Senior Specialist, Head of Research
LOT 541
1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Roadster Registration no. TAW 293H Chassis no. 11304412018153
Estimate: £60,000 - £70,000
Lot 541
1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Roadster
The Beaulieu Sale: Collectors' Motor Cars & Automobilia|14 September 2024, 13:00 BST|Beaulieu, National Motor Museum
1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Roadster
Registration no. TAW 293H
Chassis no. 11304412018153
Registration no. TAW 293H
Chassis no. 11304412018153
• First registered in the USA
• Left-hand drive
• Automatic transmission
• Largely original and unrestored
• Extensive history available
"Some cars don't change, they just get better. The Mercedes-Benz 280 SL, latest version of a line that began as the 230 SL in 1963, is the same as ever, just better," concluded Road & Track 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.
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 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 fact that it looked like 'sex on wheels' helped enormously too, of course.
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.
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.
First registered in America, this left-hand drive 280 SL has been owned by the current vendor for two years, and is understood to only have had two owners in the US. It is understood to be in very original condition with numerous correct details often lost on restored cars. It has the rare Kinder seat, and is offered with sundry bills, a data card, a V5C document, and full history from new. A handbook, tools, and jack come with the car.
• Left-hand drive
• Automatic transmission
• Largely original and unrestored
• Extensive history available
"Some cars don't change, they just get better. The Mercedes-Benz 280 SL, latest version of a line that began as the 230 SL in 1963, is the same as ever, just better," concluded Road & Track 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.
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 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 fact that it looked like 'sex on wheels' helped enormously too, of course.
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.
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.
First registered in America, this left-hand drive 280 SL has been owned by the current vendor for two years, and is understood to only have had two owners in the US. It is understood to be in very original condition with numerous correct details often lost on restored cars. It has the rare Kinder seat, and is offered with sundry bills, a data card, a V5C document, and full history from new. A handbook, tools, and jack come with the car.
Saleroom notices
Please note while the history file for this lot is extensive, it does not have full history from new. Please see file for details. Please note that this car has developed a problem with gear selection that will be rectified at the vendors expense post sale
Additional information
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