Key Features

Ultra-quick, highly sought-after ZF five-speed manual transmission
In the hands of the current owner for 38 years
Elegant 'California Convertible' model with flowing, elegant lines
Completely restored with over €35,000 invested

The Plus

Produced for only two years between December 1966 and January 1968, the 250 SL represents the middle child of the W113 'Pagoda' series, offering more power than the 230 SL while retaining the light agility that some say was somewhat lost in the later 280.

This example is even more special as one of the ultra-rare production cars with a five-speed ZF manual gearbox. And, it's the 'California Convertible' - a factory variant without a folding top. Less practical perhaps, but the absence of a soft top frees up the aesthetics and showcases those Paul Bracq lines at their very best.

This particular example is distinguished by its exceptionally long ownership of 38 years. Having benefited from a complete restoration with over €35,000 invested, including a full body restoration and interior refurbishment, this car deserves a place in any collection.

History and documents

We are told that this was originally a French market car.
Retains the French specification yellow tinted headlights
Current ownership for 38 years (since the owner was 20)
Badged as a 280, although this is incorrect, confirmed by chassis number 113043
Serial numbers are marked as matching
MOT expired in August 2024
The car has been driven regularly and always stored in a garage
Always serviced by the owner's mechanic who has worked for Mercedes-Benz for 30 years
Owner has invoices detailing servicing but no DataCard service book obtained from Mercedes Germany confirming authenticity
More than €35,000 spent on restoration (including removal of bodywork, upholstery, carpet, brakes, engine servicing, numerous chrome parts, etc.)
French registration
We understand that the SL is delivered with a current Contrôle Technique.
Carte Grise Normale Double keys

Condition

Slight signs of wear consistent with age, but nothing particularly notable
Bodywork fully restored six years ago
Many chrome parts replaced
Repainted in metallic grey Hardtop only (no soft top, as per "California" specification)
Small section at rear of hardtop in need of repair Red/bordeaux leather interior in very good condition following restoration
Upholstery, carpet and wood trim all extensively restored six years ago

The Mechanics

2.5-litre in-line six-cylinder engine
ZF five-speed manual transmission, apparently the original unit the car came with
Engine has been serviced/revised
The engine bay would benefit from some cosmetic attention but everything looks very original

BEFORE BUYING

This sale is subject to Car & Classic's terms and conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller, which means that consumer rights arising from European consumer protection legislation do not apply. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic's terms and conditions.

✓ We ask that a non-refundable fee is paid if you are the lucky winner of the auction or if your bid is accepted. Please refer to our FAQs and terms and conditions for specific fees.

✓ This vehicle is "sold as is", on an "as is, where is" basis and without warranty. Photographs and descriptions are for illustrative purposes only and it is customary to carry out a full vehicle inspection prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final offer or tender price, as specified in the advert.

✓ We want the transaction to go as smoothly as you do, which is why UK-registered cars and motorbikes offered for sale on Car & Classic are HPI checked to ensure they have no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and are not financially pledged, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are registered as written off as part of a total loss at the time the advert is placed on Car & Classic and provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) to help you. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the status of the vehicle and it is always worth carrying out a full vehicle history check before making an offer on it.

✓ Buyers are responsible for the collection or delivery of the vehicle. Importing vehicles may incur additional customs duties and import taxes. If you wish, we can recommend a third party transport company who can assist you. For more details and to speak to the team, email [email protected].