Description
- The Mercedes 280 SL Pagode. A temple for cabriolet enthusiasts. -
In the early 1960s, Walter Hitzinger, Mercedes’ boss, was looking for a compromise between the 300 SL Gullwing (a cabriolet with a refined, comfortable drive) and the 190 SL, mainly reserved for women wearing large sun hats. In 1963, the marque unveiled the W113, quickly nicknamed “Pagode” because of the distinctive winter-appropriate fixed roof. Today, nearly 60 years on, it remains a cult model. One could not sum it up better!
The chassis was a shortened version of that of the S-Class W111, and the straight-six M180 engine was, in reality, a modified aircraft engine. A longer bonnet, a large Bakelite steering wheel, rear-wheel drive… Need I say more?
Our verdict? A handsome metallic blue-grey example with a beige leather interior, having covered many kilometres in the Netherlands for 25 years. Equipped with air conditioning, a Becker radio, a satellite/ navigation system, cruise control and a stainless steel exhaust system. Always maintained in the Netherlands by a renowned Mercedes-Benz specialist who has blessed this vehicle for its new adventure.
