Description
PRINCIPLE FACTS
Precision-restored Pagoda with a paintjob worthy of Pebble Beach, this show-winning calibre 280SL has been restored by SLSHOP as a showcase of just what our craftsmen can achieve. Despite the recent jaw-dropping resto, this SL's seen consistent use and maintenance for decades. Though there's no early history to accompany the car, we know it's been driven and gradually improved by its eight keepers; the history confirming it from the mid-1980s.
The recent restoration work, carried out by our bodywork craftsmen, renders earlier attempts almost moot, so painstaking and conscientious has been the level of work directed towards this unique example. We've changed the car's original Wiess (050) exterior and Black M-B Tex to rare and remarkable Anthracite, with contrasting Bamboo trim, making a serious statement in the process.
Although it's perhaps immodest to say it, this is one of the finest Pagodas we've had in our showroom. It's been created with no expense spared and an attention to detail build that concluded with us running this 280 in, tuning and fettling every aspect so it now performs flawlessly.
CONDITION SYNOPSIS
We're very proud of our work on this 280SL, it's come out even better than we'd imagined. Taking 18 months to complete, we took our time to ensure that every facet of this restoration was carried out with the utmost attention to detail and precision. The new paint might have deviated from standard white, but we think it's the right decision. The car now presents with a mirror finish that simply wouldn't have been possible when this car was originally produced. We've replaced the top with a new Black (740) mohair hood, which compliments a standard Ivory steering wheel. All chrome has been refurbished and looks better than new, with dials and trim all now flawless.
HISTORY FILE
Although it's almost irrelevant, it's reassuring to discover that this SL's history file is quite literally bursting at the seams with invoices. MOTs can be charted back to 1985. There are plenty of Mercedes-Benz dealer receipts from the early 1990s and 2000s, showing parts and servicing support. Ancestral and on-going care's too frequent to chart in its entirety, so instead we've pulled out some highlights;
1990 Nearside front wing, window seals and mouldings all round £4624. 24.
1993 Both sills replaced and chassis repaired by JF Autobodies £2239. 25.
2002 Body restoration work by J Simons for £5k.
2005 remedial paintwork by S&C repairs £3180. 01.
2013 new rubber seals, radio and leather trim £4025.
In Autos Surrey, frequent work includes;
2014 Roof frame refurbishment, a new windscreen and new seat springs £2635. 20.
2014 New windscreen frame, ignition system and all fluids replaced £847.
2017 New injectors, full service and tuning £1290. 96.
2020 Replacement fuel pump and engine tuned £4416. 13.
SLSHOP SUMMARY
Despite looking as standard as the most original of Pagodas, this 280SL has been subtly improved. A stainless-steel exhaust greatly enhances the somewhat subdued factory unit, while at the same time, never proving intrusive. Plant your right foot and you'll notice a more sporting tone, but settle back and cruise and you'll barely be able to tell the difference. Along a similar vein, we've setup the suspension to reward the more enthusiastic driver without punishing a sedate pilot. Offering the best of both worlds and when combined with our renowned Pagoda setup program, the car's performance and response is night and day compared to 'lesser' examples.
