LOT 117
1969 Mercedes-Benz 280SL Design by Paul Bracq Chassis no. 113044.10.005050
Sold for US$58,240 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 117
1969 Mercedes-Benz 280SL
1969 Mercedes-Benz 280SL
Design by Paul Bracq
Chassis no. 113044.10.005050
Design by Paul Bracq
Chassis no. 113044.10.005050
2,778cc SOHC Inline 6-Cylinder Engine
Bosch Mechanical Fuel Injection
160bhp at 5,700rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
Independent Front Suspension, Rear Swing Axle, Coil Springs
4-Wheel Disc Brakes
*Under the Same ownership since 1982
*Original Dark Marron factory paint and Black leather interior
*Retains its original Hardtop
*33,205 miles-likely from new
*Survivor car remaining as unrestored condition
THE MERCEDES-BENZ W113 SERIES
Launched at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1963, the 230SL – internally known as the W113 – was a completely new car through and through, designed to replace the outgoing 190SL. A truly modern car for its time and constructed to the high level of craftsmanship expected from Mercedes-Benz, the model quickly found favor among the elite for its luxury and high style. Mercedes-Benz would call the W113 "a Grand Tourer in the traditional sense" and "a unique combination of sports car performance and saloon car comfort." Many of the design and technical features were industry firsts, including the hard-top designed to withstand the car's weight for safety reasons, and the roof's distinct concave shape led to the model's popular nickname, the 'Pagoda'.
After the 230SL came the 250SL, which boosted engine capacity by about 200cc over its predecessor; later, both were replaced by the ultimate evolution of the W113, the 280SL, introduced in 1967. The enlarged 2.8-liter 6-cylinder SOHC engine now produced 170 horsepower, and disc brakes were now standard on all four corners. These last classic Pagoda models have become increasingly collectible, featuring exceptional build quality and reliability, easy access to spare parts, not to mention being highly usable thanks to their modern specifications.
THE CAR OFFERED
This 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280SL barn find presents as a remarkably well-preserved example of the iconic Pagoda model. Finished in a striking Dark Maroon exterior—the original factory color—it stands as a clear testament to its careful preservation over the years. Inside, the Black leather interior seems to be original, untouched and unrestored, further underscoring its authenticity and period charm. Both the engine and 4-speed manual transmission have endured the decades in admirable condition.
With just 33,205 miles showing on the odometer—believed to be original, though lacking a continuous paper trail—the car's exceptional state offers compelling evidence of its limited and considerate use. Notably, the vehicle was parked by the current owner in a barn in 1987, where it remained sheltered and out of use until its recent discovery. According to the available documentation, the vehicle has never undergone restoration, instead surviving as an unspoiled time capsule that will require mechanical recommissioning before active use. While additional documentation is unavailable, the originality and presentation of this Dark Brown Pagoda are sure to appeal to discerning collectors and Mercedes-Benz purists alike.
Additional information
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