Highlights
- An excellent restored example
- Rebuilt 2.3-litre straight-six engine
- Rare four-speed manual gearbox
- Impeccably presented
- Complete with Polish registration documentation and plates
The Appeal
If one car embodies 1960s style more than any other it’s probably the Mercedes-Benz W113 SL, otherwise known as the ‘Pagoda’. Beautifully styled, expertly put together and lovely to drive, these SLs are amongst the most sought-after classic roadsters on the market today.
This 1965 230SL has evidently been restored to a high standard inside, out and underneath. It reportedly runs well and drives exactly as it should, with no issues to report. Unusually, this example is equipped with a manual gearbox, so if this is the SL you’ve long been looking for, be sure not to miss this excellent opportunity to make it yours.
The History and Paperwork
- Totally restored approximately five years ago
- Left-hand drive
- MPH speedometer
- First registered in 1965
- Polish registration documents and number plates present
- Currently resides in the Netherlands
The Interior
- Black vinyl upholstery
- Becker Olympia Stereo cassette system
- Smart boot space
- Barely any wear to the controls or switchgear
- All the woodwork appears in excellent condition
Mercedes-Benz were king when it came to understated luxury. The W113’s interior exudes quality but is in no way garish. A simple and relatively uncluttered painted dashboard holds some exquisite VDO instruments and solidly made switchgear. The use of woodwork is minimal yet effective and the upholstery remains fairly basic while still providing ample comfort.
This example’s interior has clearly been restored in the past, although remains commendably original with a number of delightful period features carefully preserved. We particularly enjoy the radio, which is supplemented by a Becker Olympia Stereo cassette system, that can be found hiding inside the glovebox. It’s features like this that make classic car ownership such fun and we’re sure the next owner will enjoy finding old cassettes to play…
The upholstery and carpeting is all in very good order. The carpets do not exhibit any notable wear, neither do the overmats nor boot lining.
The Exterior
- Striking red paintwork, offset by a black ‘Pagoda’ hardtop
- Straight, corrosion-free bodywork with good panel fit
- OEM steel wheels complete with the correct trims and a set of white band tyres
- The chromework appears to present very well overall
- We noticed a very small dent on the nearside front bumper as seen in the photos
- The paint looks really smart and is very bright
- Light ‘orange peel’ is evident to the finish under bright light - although this is not especially noticeable
- The underside looks to be in impeccable order, with no corrosion or damage in sight
- Complete with hardtop and new folding roof
Beautiful, isn’t it? A strong candidate for the best-looking car of all time, the ‘Pagoda’ showcased some of the great Paul Bracq’s finest penmanship and its influence can be seen in subsequent Mercedes-Benz models over the years.
This one looks marvellous in red, especially with that black hardtop roof offering contrast. The paintwork and trim all presents very well, with few blemishes to be seen. This car is clearly remarkably solid and we couldn't find any signs of corrosion whatsoever. The panels align nicely, the doors fit well and all the swage lines remain crisp. It's complete with both its roofs and vendor informs us that the folding fabric item has been replaced. It is therefore in excellent condition and operates correctly.
The Mechanics
- 2.3-litre fuel-injected inline-six petrol engine
- Four-speed manual gearbox
- Rear-wheel drive
- All appears immensely smart under the bonnet
It’s unusual to find a 230SL with a manual gearbox, making this 1965 example quite rare. These straight-six engines were renowned for their smoothness and durability, benefiting from fuel injection.
The vendor informs us that this SL runs and drives exactly as it should and we’re not aware of any faults.
Summary
For those seeking a supremely smart SL, this 230 looks utterly fabulous inside and out. It would be the perfect choice for continental touring and arriving at your destination in unparalleled style.
Presented in ready-to-use, restored condition, this is your chance to acquire something rather special.
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes. On request, Car & Classic may refer you to a third-party shipping company. For more details, email auctions@carandclassic.com. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders.,
