Description
The Mercedes‑Benz 280SL « Pagode » (W113) was introduced in December 1967 and remained in production until February 1971 before being replaced by its successor, the R107 350SL, entirely new and noticeably heavier.
Over the years, the W113 quietly evolved from an agile sports car to a comfortable Grand Tourer.
It was generally equipped with a four‑speed automatic or manual transmission; the latest Pagode evolution was the 280SL, launched in November 1967 with a host of technical improvements.
Today it is regarded as the most refined iteration of the W113 series, with its new robust M130 seven‑bearing engine of 2778 cm3 producing 170 bhp, perfectly suited to the automatic transmission.
When production ceased in March 1971, around 23, 885 units had been built, making the 280SL the most popular of all the W113 variants.
The shown model was delivered new in the United States, and it has even retained its distinctive US‑spec front headlights after being imported into Europe.
This is a car that is regularly used and not afraid of long‑distance journeys.
The current owner has covered a great many miles behind the wheel and has kept it impeccably maintained.
Our appraisal revealed a few minor cosmetic paint flaws but nothing surprising for a repaint done several years ago on a car that is very regularly used.
The tight Cartier red leather interior shows a beautiful patina, the seat bolsters are perfect, and the original white steering wheel, like the rest of the interior, has a very nice patina.
The alignment of the body panels is entirely satisfactory, the mechanics run very well, the auto transmission shifts very smoothly, and the brakes and running gear are equally satisfactory.
The miles behind its wheel are a pleasure one would wish never to end.
The “Pagode” 280 SL is the epitome of Mercedes‑Benz’s SL family, backed by a gearbox perfectly matched to the legendary reliable six‑cylinder engine, and it will be the perfect companion for your travels.
