Description
This car is Lot 134 to be auctioned by Bonhams|Cars at The Quail Auction on Friday August 15, please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Public Viewing:
Available Wednesday August 13 from 09:00 until 18:00, Thursday 14 August from 09:00 until 18:00, and Friday 15 August from 08:30 onwards, at The Quail Lodge.
Lot 134
1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SL
Registration no.
Chassis no. 113044. 12. 023697
2, 778cc SOHC Inline 6-Cylinder Engine
Bosch Fuel Injection
170bhp at 5, 700rpm
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes
* Beautiful variant of Mercedes-Benz's classic 'Pagoda' 280SL
* Nicely restored example, finished in wonderful Silver over Red livery
* Complete with both soft and hard tops
* Sports car performance with saloon car comfort
* Wonderful Mercedes-Benz for Sunday morning cruising
THE MERCEDES-BENZ 280SL
"Some cars don't change; they just get better. The Mercedes-Benz 280SL, latest version of a line that began as the 230SL in 1963, is the same as ever, just better," concluded Road & Track after testing a 280SL in 1968. "For those who value engineering, finesse and high-quality construction, it's alone in the field," enthused the highly respected American motoring magazine, while its manufacturer considered the 280SL, "a Grand Tourer in the traditional sense" and "a unique combination of sports car performance and saloon car comfort (a Mercedes-Benz saloon naturally)."
These attributes help explain the 280SL's phenomenal success, particularly in the all-important North American market where the optional automatic transmission was considered an essential feature by the majority of customers. The fact that it looked like "sex on wheels" helped enormously too, of course. The 280SL's essential user friendliness broadened its appeal beyond the traditional sports car enthusiast market, and many celebrities and film stars owned 280SLs.
The last of a popular and extremely successful line begun with the 230SL of 1963, the Mercedes-Benz 280SL was introduced in 1967 powered by a new 2. 8-liter six-cylinder engine that produced 170bhp, 20 horsepower more than the preceding 250SL. The 280SL's 120mph top speed was no greater but it was significantly quicker off the mark, its 0-60mph time of 10 seconds being a whole second better than its predecessor. Christened "pagoda top" after their distinctive cabin shape, these SL models were amongst the best-loved sports-tourers of their day and are increasingly sought after by collectors who have rediscovered their significant merits.
THE CAR OFFERED
Assembled at the Mercedes-Benz factory in Stuttgart, Germany, in 1971, destined for the U. S., this fine 280SL looks resplendent in a warm silver color over red interior. Originally finished in 906 Grey Blue Metallic, the car, retaining many of its original body panels with excellent panel-gap, as stamped (photographed) was repainted some years ago, including the desirable hard top option. The high-quality interior, refinished throughout in red MB-Tex makes for a very pleasant place to be, down to the Becker Grand Prix radio. The car is accompanied by its set of tools.
This fine example of the legendary Pagoda-top 280SL, from the most desirable model year, carries many of the good signs which Pagoda connoisseurs look for. On this example, the hood matches the last digits of the body number, the front fenders still appear to have the correct factory spot welds, the front headlights still have the exposed 'notches' visible, while the hood pad appears to be original with mild wear, telling us this was a very well-preserved example to begin with. Displaying good panel gaps, this 280SL has that outstanding quality feel so indicative of the marque. Complete with hard and black soft top and Becker radio, this wonderful example of the legendary Pagoda-top 280SL is ready for its next caretaker.
All lots are sold 'as is/ where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams|Cars website for all pertinent auction information.
