The W113 is a well loved and respected model in the Mercedes-Benz family tree. And the 250 SL is the rarest version of the W113, having been produced for only a very short period of time from 1966 to ’68. This makes it particularly desirable.
This particular 250 SL was exported to the US and was seemingly owned by one family from new until the current vendor bought it and imported it to the UK in 2022. So here we have an opportunity to acquire a car with excellent history, which is still awaiting its first registration in the UK.
The car is presented as a project, with the engine having reportedly been running recently, but a full mechanical and structural inspection will be required. This will provide the next owner with a rewarding project to get stuck into.
VAT and import duty correctly accounted for, confirmed by HMRC letter
Many original documents including service book, owner’s manual, wiring diagram, state registration documents etc.
Original sales invoice, listing options specified
Registration documents show one family ownership from new in the US, until export in 2022
The vendor has requested a data card and factory specification sheet from Mercedes in Germany, and will forward these to the next owner
The requisite documents for registering the car in the UK are present: original title, bill of sale and NOVA from HMRC, allowing the purchaser to be the first registered keeper
This Pagoda’s interior appears to be in wonderfully original condition, with the MB Tex faux leather upholstery and attractive red colour-matched dashboard. There are some small rips and tears to the upholstery and it could do with a good clean but they should look great once repaired.
The dashboard appears to be in good condition, with a full complement of gauges, clock and Becker radio. But the vinyl above the dashboard is peeling in places. The steering wheel is cracked and crazed on its rim and the padded centre boss has a small amount of damage.
Clearly this interior will require work if it is to be brought back to its former condition, but this will provide the next owner with a satisfying project to complete. There is also an occasional seat to the rear and the spacious boot retains its ribbed rubber matting, although the bootlid seal has perished. image00104.jpeg3.99 MB
The Exterior
Signal Red paintwork
Whitewall tyres
Colour matched wheels
The distinctive ‘Pagoda’ roof and tall headlights make this an attractive and easily recognised Mercedes. The car comes with a removable hardtop, which affords excellent visibility and extra weather protection.
The Signal Red paintwork appears to be in excellent all-round condition, remaining bright and without any sign of fading or bleaching. There appear to be very few scratches or chips to speak of, and the wheels are finished in a matching shade, along with the hub caps.
The chrome plating on the bumpers and other exterior trim looks to have survived very well. Unfortunately the three-pointed Mercedes star on the front grille has come off, but it remains with the car in the boot.
Underneath, we notice some flaking and bubbling to the paint along the sills and some surface corrosion can be seen. But, reassuringly, the car was treated with a layer of undersell from new, according to the sales invoice. So this will have helped to preserve the underside.
The vendor tells us that they have had the engine started but we would recommend a full mechanical inspection, as this Mercedes was purchased as a restoration project. The suspension, gearbox and brakes in particular will need to be checked before use.
Included on the original sales invoice is a list of optional extras fitted to this car: manual four-speed transmission, power steering and four-wheel disc brakes. These were luxury features at the time.
This 250 SL will make a great project, as it’s one of the rarest versions of the Mercedes W113. It retains the classic looks and tall headlamps, while featuring the distinctive ‘pagoda’ roof.
So we’re sure the next owner of this Mercedes-Benz will enjoy bringing it back to its former glory.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
