Photos provided by the vendor
Highlights
- Comprehensively restored around five years ago and prepared to a very high standard
- Equipped with the lesser-seen four-speed manual gearbox
- Matching numbers and well documented service history
The Appeal
Remaining a strong contender for the most elegant car ever made, it’s no wonder that the W113 Mercedes-Benz SL ‘Pagoda’ was the transport of choice for many of the ‘60s jet set.
This 1966 230 was restored around five years ago and is beautifully presented inside, out and under the bonnet. The 2.3-litre, fuel-injected straight-six has been overhauled and is said to run really well. A further interesting feature is the four-speed manual gearbox - something we seldom see with a ‘60s SL and the vendor comments that this makes the drive a very engaging experience.
This matching numbers example is said to have well documented and impressive service history. It has reportedly had just two owners from new, so if you’re looking to be its third, be sure not to miss the chance to add this stunning Mercedes-Benz to your garage.
The History and Paperwork
- Matching numbers
- Just two previous owners
- Originally supplied to France
- Currently resides in the Czech Republic
- The vendor informs us that the car is accompanied by a substantial history file
- Comprehensively restored approximately five years ago
- Accompanied by photographic evidence of the restoration work
- Said to be ready to use - with all registration paperwork complete and in order
- 4,205 kilometres indicated - although we’re unable to confirm the true figure
The Interior
- Carefully restored to period correct specification
- Tasteful brown upholstery and carpeting
- Well presented woodwork
- Equipped with a vintage Becker Europa radio
- Hardly any notable signs of use in evidence
At least part of the Pagoda’s success has to be attributed to its beautifully appointed interior. Every inch of it exudes style and feels of the utmost quality.
The brown upholstery in this example perfectly suits the car perfectly, proving a great complement to the grey paintwork. The seats present immensely well, with no heavy wear or any damage in sight. These have clearly been recovered recently and to a very good standard.
So too, the carpets look great, with barely any wear to be seen. All the woodwork is in nice order, as are the various chromed trims. The switches all look great and so do the instruments and the period Becker Europa radio. In the boot, we find ribbed rubber matting and spare wheel, complete with cover.
The Exterior
- Expertly restored bodywork
- Very smart chromework
- Complete with its ‘Pagoda’ hard-top and folding soft-top roof - both of which are in great condition
To speak of the W113 without mentioning its styling would be remiss of us. It is undoubtedly some of Paul Bracq’s best work. In fact, we venture to say that it is some of the best automotive design of all time.
In a metallic grey, this example looks magnificent and it has evidently been restored to a fantastic standard. The bodywork is exceedingly straight, with excellent panel gaps and those innovative aluminium doors fit just as they should. We couldn’t see any dents or notable marks in the paintwork. All the badging and trim looks great and so do the bumpers and we didn’t spot any pitting or dulling to the chrome.
Underneath, all seems in impeccable order. The wheels present nicely and wear Bridgestone tyres. Both roofs are present and they’re in great condition so far as we could discern. The vendor demonstrates that the soft-top operates smoothly and tucks neatly under a solid cover when the car is used as a roadster.
The Mechanics
- 2.3-litre, fuel injected inline-six
- Four-speed manual gearbox
- Subject to a mechanical overhaul
- Well sorted and driving well
- Matching numbers engine and gearbox
We understand that this SL has been subject to a comprehensive mechanical overhaul during the restoration and so is in very fine working order. We’ve seen photographs of the engine in its disassembled state and we understand that it is in rude health internally. The engine presents brilliantly under the bonnet and the vendor does not inform us of any faults.
It is said to run well and drive exactly as it should. The manual gearbox adds a level of further driver engagement to the experience and we’re informed that it selects gears smoothly. Direct rack and pinion steering makes cornering a pleasure and there’s apparently plenty of performance to be had from that torquey straight-six.
Summary
Presented in fabulous restored condition, this has to be one of the most handsome Pagodas we’ve ever seen. It’s abundantly clear that a great deal of attention has been paid to every aspect of its restoration and we’re sure this painstaking work will have ensured its survival for years to come.
Finished in a fabulous colour combination, with both roofs present and a manual gearbox, this is a great example that is sure to take pride of place in any car collection.
Any questions?
Any questions?
Is there anything else you would like to know?
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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.*
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