This Pagoda is a real rarity: the 250 SL was by far the least numerous Pagoda, and the one with the shortest production run. This model replaced the 230 in December 1966, with the final 250 being built in November ’67 – it is, in essence, an evolutionary bridge between the early 230 and late 280 models, and this particular example has an intriguing history. A 1967 model, it was first registered with the DVLA in 1980, and we can see from the history file that it lived in France from the 1990s through to 2014.

Amazingly, the original service book is stamped from 1968 right up to 2019, and we can see that the real turning point for this car’s adventures came in 2015. This was the year when it was brought back to the UK, and had well in excess of £10,000 lavished upon it – including a full engine rebuild, extensive chassis refurbishment, new seals and all sorts.
 
 Fast-forward to 2021, and the Pagoda went to Pool Lane Classics for a full body resto (another £10k+). So the bodywork is gorgeous, the mechanicals are tip-top, and it’s still got its original MB-Tex interior along with its hard- and soft-tops.

 It's beautiful to behold and it drives like a dream, meaning this is a car with a lot to offer. And it really is one for the connoisseurs… we’d urge any dyed-in-the-wool Pagoda experts to check this car out, you won’t be disappointed!
 

 

The Pagoda looks arguably at its prettiest when finished in white, and this car certainly proved to be a real head-turner on our test drive through south London. The body restoration has been carried out to an impressive standard; the paint is all pleasingly presented and the panel gaps are nice and even. The soft-top is in very good order, and is easy to raise, affix and lower, while the contrasting black hard-top is also in great condition, and even has the original dealer sticker in the back window.

 All of the correct exterior trim is in place, and the light lenses and window glass are in good condition. The wheels wear colour-coded white hubcaps, and a matching set of Michelin MXV tyres.

 The interior is very well presented, with the original MB-Tex trim on the seats and good carpets beneath. A wind deflector is fitted in the rear, and the cabin also benefits from a Becker Mexico radio-cassette unit which has a 3.5mm input jack hidden away inside the glovebox.

The inside and outside lights on the glovebox lid work properly, and the car is fitted with electric windows which also operate as they should. The dash is unmarked, the dials work correctly, and the wood trim on the dashtop is free from sun damage. The car has been fitted with a taller centre armrest incorporating a lockable storage unit.

 Inside the boot we find a spare wheel in the correct cover, plus Mercedes-Benz first aid kit and fully stocked tool roll.
 

The crucial thing about this Pagoda is that it sounds right – so many examples are fitted with aftermarket or pattern exhausts which dull the characterful tone, but this 250 sounds exactly as it ought to.

 Indeed, it’s an impressive mechanical package overall. In 2015, the engine was rebuilt, which involved re-boring the block, rebuilding the head with new valves and seats, sourcing brand new pistons and rods directly from Mercedes-Benz, and plenty more. In addition, the chassis has enjoyed extensive works to get it all as it should be, from reconditioning the rear axle and the steering box to renewing the wheel bearings and tie rod ends, kingpins, trunnions and so on. The result is a car that’s highly dependable and an absolute joy to drive.

You really need to try it to believe it, this car is so wonderfully smooth to drive and feels solid enough that you could take it anywhere, no matter how far, with consummate ease.
 

 
This is a truly impressive example of the breed. It’s often said that old SLs make such popular classics because you can drive them like new cars, and that’s very much the case with this one: it starts first time with ease, idles smoothly and quietly, accelerates briskly, and rides with superlative comfort. The seals have been renewed and the chassis overhauled so there are no noises or rattles, it all feels very tight.

And with a few handy creature comforts – such as the electric windows, power steering and Becker stereo – it’s got everything you need to make every journey a breeze. How can you resist…?
 
BEFORE YOU BUY 

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