The W113 is that most remarkable of cars, one that set a template for a series of cars that was so successful that it has barely needed changing right up to the modern day. Every subsequent SL has stuck true to the formula of quality construction, exquisite engineering and swift yet relaxing progress.
Nicknamed the ‘Pagoda’ for its roof design, the new SL was a doyen of celebrities and the successful, a reputation that has continued to attract buyers 60 years after it entered production. Values match this demand, helped by the sheer usability of these durable cars.
This superb factory RHD example is one of the best we have seen in recent months. A quick glance at the photographs reveals superb panel fit, reflecting the near £40,000 invested in the car over the last 10 years.
The History and Paperwork
First UK registered on 16th June 1967
Vast history file in bulging folder stretching back to 1969
Just six owners from new
Current owner since 3rd December 2012
He acquired the car from, a leading Pagoda specialist
Maintained by that specialist for much of its life
£38,834 expenditure over 10 years documented below
Sparing 672miles use during that time
MOT expired 26th May 2018 and has covered few miles since
Original factory handbooks and service book in very good condition
Original hard top with car but has suffered severe damage due to a wall collapsing on to it
The estimated cost of restoring the hard top to new condition is £10,000 plus VAT
Maintenance work over last 10 years:
20/6/2013 @ 105,316 renew brake servo
£1014.00 23/06/2014 @ 105,328m
Renew soft top £1296.00 12/02/2016 @105,531m
£11,323 on 27th May 2016 at 105,556 miles for the below
Original RHD UK car finished in one of the most desirable Pagoda colours
Superb exterior condition with excellent panel fit and paintwork
Highly original including the smart steel wheels with chrome body-colour hub caps
Chromework presents virtually as new with no visible marks or tarnishing
Quality specialist Vredestein Spring tyres showing good tread
Interior follows the condition theme, only a small mark on passenger seat base detracting
Unusual third rear seat conversion adds to versatility
Blue mohair roof in unmarked conditions with no creases and clear screen
Supplied with factory hard top but we are told it requires repairs
MB Tex black seats in well presented condition
Interior chrome fittings and switchgear well kept with no issues to note
Dashboard and centre console veneers excellent and with no deterioration
Underside reflects bodywork condition with no structural issues to note
The Pagoda represents one of the world’s greatest car makers operating at the top of its game. It is a superb blend of handsome, restrained styling with delightful details across the exterior and interior. The interior is particularly appealing, its pair of big, comfortable seats facing a carefully arranged dashboard with smart veneer highlights.
This UK RHD example is a great advertisement for those qualities and features. The bodywork is close to concours condition - the chromework and panel fit are particularly appealing - and the interior shows only the very lightest signs of use.
No doubt the condition reflects the low owners and very sparing recent use alongside considerable investment. That and the fact that the work to the car has been undertaken by model specialists.
The Mechanics
2,306cc M127 straight six engine developing 145bhp
4spd automatic gearbox
Vast history file with considerable ongoing investment
The maintenance is documented above and goes beyond mere scheduled work
The 2.3litre version of Mercedes-Benz’ excellent M127 straight six is a particularly sweet-revving unit and endows the Pagoda with a pleasing blend of performance and economy.
The photographs and details above demonstrate the owner’s approach to maintenance for which the word ‘fastidious’ barely does justice. Nearly £40,000 has been expended over the last 10 years with Pagoda specialist Colin Ferns, the work covering mechanical and suspension improvements. During that time the car has covered less than 700 miles.
Few Pagodas have come to market in recent times with such provenance. Values match this demand, helped by the sheer usability
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.
✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.
