Despite being manufactured for less than a year, the W113 Mercedes-Benz 250 SL Pagoda is unquestionably a highlight of the W113 era. Equally adept at short boulevard cruises or cross-continental expeditions, it blends the spirited character of early SLs with the enhanced refinement of later models. It’s hard to think of a car more suited to pulling up outside a luxury hotel anywhere in the world than this effortlessly streamlined roadster.
This particular car was registered in Chicago in 1967, with 14 recorded services completed at Mercedes-Benz dealerships, mainly in California. These stopped in 1976, after which point it appears to have been stored off-road for decades. Its second life began in 2012, with a comprehensive recommissioning and restoration process completed before it was imported to the UK. Since then, it has had only two owners, with its current keeper describing it as “full of charm and period character”.
Finished in silver, this car presents its next owner with a choice of a matching hard-top or a black folding soft-top roof, while the 14-inch steel wheels have body-coloured and chrome hubcaps inside Cientra Plus whitewall tyres. The red leatherette-trimmed interior incorporates period silver, chrome and wood trim, and age-related scuffs have been mitigated by a previous reupholstering of the well-padded seats.
Two ignition keys are included, and the current owner describes this car as “a charismatic companion for weekend cruising and classic car show visits alike”. From the driver’s seat, the dashboard looks absolutely stunning, with its VDO dials and wire-rimmed leather-padded steering wheel. Even the carpeted luggage space behind the seats is in pristine condition, suggesting it’s only seen light use. Despite its vintage, in many respects, this car is only just getting started.
Described by current owner as “beautifully presented”
Silver paint and chromework in superb condition
Stored under cover and only driven in good weather
Choice of body-colour hardtop and black soft-top
Boot lock reportedly requires replacement
Considering its age, this 250 SL is in outstanding condition. The interior retains a wealth of period equipment – a top-tinted windscreen behind a two-spoke steering wheel, a VDO analogue clock above a Becker Europa push-button radio, and so forth. An auxiliary cable is connected to a more contemporary stereo discreetly tucked away in the glovebox, while the red leather seats are in superb condition; they’re believed to have been refurbished many years ago.
There are various signs of wear across the doors, but the dashboard looks near perfect. The breathable indoor car cover and hard top stand are welcome additions, which will help to keep this stunning car in pristine condition for many years to come.
Passed last MOT test in July 2022 with no advisories
Flaking bonnet liner but engine bay is in good condition
Spare wheel and original toolkit still in the boot
Cylinder head gasket replaced in 2016
This car has benefited from an extensive and ongoing programme of maintenance. In April 2021, it received new spark plugs and valve seals, an oil and filter change, a fuel pump overhaul and a new fuel filter seal. More recently, new rear brake callipers and spark plugs were fitted in March 2023. The fuel system overhaul alone cost nearly £5,000, reflecting the dedication of its former and current owners to preserving it in optimal mechanical condition. image.png3.36 MB
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