Richard Stafford
Senior Specialist, Head of Research
LOT 136
1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Convertible with Hardtop Registration no. to be advised Chassis no. 11304412010016
Estimate: £60,000 - £80,000
Lot 136
1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Convertible with Hardtop
1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Convertible with Hardtop
Registration no. to be advised
Chassis no. 11304412010016
Registration no. to be advised
Chassis no. 11304412010016
• Present ownership since 2017
• Left-hand drive
• Automatic transmission
• Extensively restored between 2017 and 2022
• Restoration invoices available
"Some cars don't change, they just get better. The Mercedes-Benz 280SL, latest version of a line that began as the 230 SL in 1963, is the same as ever, just better," concluded Road & Track after testing a 280 SL 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 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, its 0-60mph time of 10 seconds being a whole second better than its predecessor's.
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.
Purchased privately in the UK in December 2017, this left-hand drive 280 SL was substantially restored between 2017 and 2022, including work on the engine, interior and body. The history file also contains a breakdown of parts purchased for the restoration and details of when the Mercedes was imported into the UK.
• Left-hand drive
• Automatic transmission
• Extensively restored between 2017 and 2022
• Restoration invoices available
"Some cars don't change, they just get better. The Mercedes-Benz 280SL, latest version of a line that began as the 230 SL in 1963, is the same as ever, just better," concluded Road & Track after testing a 280 SL 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 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, its 0-60mph time of 10 seconds being a whole second better than its predecessor's.
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.
Purchased privately in the UK in December 2017, this left-hand drive 280 SL was substantially restored between 2017 and 2022, including work on the engine, interior and body. The history file also contains a breakdown of parts purchased for the restoration and details of when the Mercedes was imported into the UK.
Saleroom notices
Please note that the importation paperwork does not come with the car. However, the car is fully UK registered. Please note the registration number is UBD 486G, please also note the Hard Top for the car is still with the vendors in the North West of England, and our transport partners Indigo Blue will liaise with the buyer to reunite with the car post sale.
Additional information
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