The Mercedes-Benz Pagoda. Even before an actual model name is mentioned, virtually every classic car enthusiast knows which model is being referred to: the stylish SL with upright headlights, the successor to the legendary W198 SL ‘gull-wing’ and its open variant. Unlike its predecessor, the Pagoda was only available as an open roadster and it is clear that the car was designed as a convertible. What a line!

The name Pagoda is owed to the concave shape of the hardtop, which is reminiscent of Chinese Pagoda roofs. You can also see the same shape replicated in the headrests of the German convertible. The 280 SL represents a great success for Mercedes-Benz, and the model is still hugely popular. The beautifully sculpted body, fantastic straight-six engines, and a finish that only a few exclusive competitors could hope to match: a perennially beloved classic in every aspect.

The 280 SL we are offering here is a neatly presented roadster in a beautiful combination: red paint with black leather. The SL’s body looks tidy and has previously been treated to a new coat of paint. As a result, the SL has a beautiful luster. The paintwork is quite well executed, and hardly any damages are to be found. The fit and finish, such as the hood, doors, and trunk lid, all close like proverbial bank vaults, and the alignments are very neat.

The interior can best be described as tidy, with the dashboard appearing to be original. Very attractive, with beautiful gauges, a modern radio with a period-correct appearance, and yes, factory air conditioning. Easily recognizable by the air vents under the dashboard, and of course, incredibly pleasant. The upholstery on the seats is unscathed and only mildly shows its age. On the center tunnel, you’ll find the gear lever for the automatic transmission. With this automatic, the SL is not only a sporty but also a very relaxed open two-seater to drive.

Now, the 2, 778 cc straight-six: producing 170 horsepower and executing its work smoothly, this engine is a reliable all-rounder. Sporty driving is absolutely possible, but sporty touring is to be preferred. The automatic transmission received praise in its time as it still does today. The SL is a joy to drive, with its driving qualities, reliability, and the constant awareness of being in a magnificent car making the Mercedes-Benz an enormous treat.

The same can be said for the underside of this W113 SL as for the rest of the car: tidy, worry-free, and no ‘work in progress.’ The car comes with a stack of invoices.