• Left-hand drive
• Imported from the USA
• Present ownership since 2001
• Lightly recommissioned

Introduced at the Geneva Salon in March 1963 as replacement for the 190SL, the 230 SL abandoned its predecessor's four-cylinder engine in favour of a 2.3-litre fuel-injected six derived from that of the 220 SE and producing 150bhp. An instant classic, the body design was all-new while beneath the skin the running gear was conventional Mercedes-Benz, featuring all-round independent suspension (by swing axles at the rear), disc front/drum rear brakes and a choice of four-speed manual or automatic transmissions. Top speed was in excess of 120mph.

The 230 SL even managed a debut competition victory, as Sporting Motorist noted: "Performances of the Mercedes-Benz range in the competition field are legendary, and we think particularly of participation in the most rugged of rallies where the cars have proved their strength and stamina beyond doubt. Soon after the 230 SL was announced, Eugen Böhringer drove one to victory in the Spa-Sofia-Liège Rally, and although competition outings are rare, this was the sort of debut one would expect from the Stuttgart factory." Christened 'Pagoda' after their distinctively shaped cabin - the work of industrial designer and automotive stylist, Paul Bracq - these SL models were amongst the best-loved sports-tourers of their day and continue to be highly sought after by collectors.

Finished in white with red MB-Tex interior trim, this particular 230 SL was imported from the USA and was acquired for the collection at a UK auction in 2001.

The collection staff have carried out gentle recommissioning ahead of sale: fuel pump replaced; fuel filter replaced; carburettors stripped and rebuilt; fuel tank removed, chemically cleaned, and refitted; coolant hoses replaced; new set of O-rings installed on the gear lever and a new battery fitted. We would advise a close inspection before returning to the road for regular use.

The auction purchase invoice is on file, and the car also comes with copies of its old State of Texas Certificate of Title; some expired MoT certificates; some old maintenance invoices; a list of works carried out in 2010; and an old UK V5 registration document (GNB 881D).

Please note that this vehicle is from outside the UK. Our customs agents, CARS UK, will manage all post sale customs administration. A fee of £350+VAT will be charged on the buyer's invoice to administer both import or export customs movements. If the buyer also chooses to ship with CARS UK, this will be quoted separately. If this vehicle is to remain in the UK, it will be subject to Import VAT at the reduced rate of 5% on the hammer price. This vehicle will not be available for immediate collection after the sale and will only be released on completion of customs clearance formalities. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Motorcar Department.