HIGHLIGHTS
- One of the most elegant and refined Mercedes of all time
- In very good overall condition
- Benefitting from over £24,000 recent expenditure
- Desirable 2.8-litre engine
THE APPEAL
The Mercedes-Benz 280SL ‘Pagoda’ is without doubt one of the most desirable and exquisite cars of all time. Owned and loved by stars of screen and stage, it’s elegant lines and superbly engineered performance outclassed most of it’s contemporaries during the ’60’s.
This refined act was imported from the U.S. in 2020. Cosmetically restored some time ago, it still retains all the elegant features attributed to this classic roadster and comes with a very nice soft-top and the optional hard-top.
Under the bonnet we find a healthy-sounding fuel- injected 2.8-litre straight-six engine with 4-speed manual transmission and features such as power-steering and servo-assisted brakes.
Distinctive and highly sought-after, this Classic 280 SL could be the one for you…
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
- Built in late 1968 and registered on the 1st January 1969
- U.K. registered on the 1st April 2020
- V5 present
- Beverly Hills Car Club invoice
- Import documents
- DVLA registration paperwork
- W113 Data Cards/Colour Codes information
- Inspection report in June 2020 from Colin Ferns Ltd, Surrey (well renowned experts in classic Mercedes and the Pagoda in particular)
- Comprehensive servicing by Colin Ferns Ltd during 2020 & 2021
- One MOT in April 2020 at 31,505 miles (no advisories)
- Taxed until 1st April 2024 (exempt)
We don’t have any long-term history, but this Mercedes was purchased from Beverly Hills Car Club in 2019 and appears to have been restored a while ago. Since import, it has been thoroughly assessed and mechanically maintained by independent Mercedes specialists, Colin Ferns Ltd (see photos of invoices).
In excess of £24,000 was spent on mechanical and minor cosmetic improvements during 2020 and 2021.
THE INTERIOR
- Original specification Tan interior
- Fantastic period instrumentation
- Recent replacement parts (see invoices)
- Tidy boot
As safety was integral to the W113 design, the wonderful chrome and body-coloured dashboard and interior fitments were smooth and rounded-off. The steering wheel, for example, incorporates a soft padded centre and soft knee pads sit below the dash.
Sitting in the deep sumptuous seat, the driving position is really comfortable. With the stylish ’60’s dash and long bonnet ahead, you know you about to drive something special.
The period VDO gauges, switchgear, heater controls and clock are all in good condition and a Blaupunkt DAB radio/CD player and four Premier speakers are installed. A replacement floor-mounted ivory gear knob and wooden centre console are fitted, and below, the carpeting and over-mats are clean and presentable.
The interior is displaying some time-served wear. Most noticeably, there are a couple of splits to the dash top and the passenger seat base, and the driver’s door trim pocket has become detached at the bottom. The rubber sill protectors are also cracking.
At the rear, the boot space is clean and nicely painted with an older rubber mat. A spare wheel and jack are also in place.
THE EXTERIOR
- Gorgeous Red (576) coachwork
- Fantastic bright chrome work
- Recent replacement parts (see invoices)
- Excellent soft-top and hard-top
Simple, stylish body lines are augmented by lashings of chrome trim and finite details. Whether in open-top, soft-top, or hard-top mode, this SL looks cool from every angle.
The restored body and paintwork is generally in good condition. We didn’t detect any significant scratches, scuffs or bubbling and the chrome work and trim is very shiny. Initially, we can see a few chips to the driver’s door edge, some dings to the lower side trims and a couple of scratches on the front bumper.
The tinted windscreen and side windows are clear, as are the mirrors, European-spec’ ‘fishbowl’ headlights, rear lights and side reflectors.
Once up, the fairly new soft-top looks smart and fits tightly. The ‘Pagoda’-top is in good order and fits neatly into position.
The standard wheels have nice trims attached and carry a set of 2019 Vitour Galaxy R1 whitewall tyres with plenty of remaining tread. Peering underneath, we find a sound looking structure and floor coated in older underseal.
THE MECHANICS
- Fuel injected 2.8-litre straight-six engine
- Unconfirmed mileage
- 4-speed manual transmission
- Steering box overhauled
- Steering components replaced
- Rear axle overhauled
- New rear shock absorbers
- New brake hoses
- Replacement exhaust
- Numerous other repaired or replaced parts (see invoices)
Under the bonnet, we discover a tidy bay housing the reliable well-proven 2,778 cc M130 SOHC engine. During the photoshoot this engine started and ran smoothly and sounded great through the relatively new exhaust system.
As mentioned, quite a few hours of professional attention, not to mention cost, have been lavished on the mechanical department of this SL to keep it on song.
SUMMARY
Gorgeous in red, this 280 SL represents a great opportunity to secure a highly usable and luxurious classic Mercedes-Benz.
Owned and endorsed by the great Stirling Moss, and more recently, Harry Styles, it is bound to be a crowd pleaser and put a smile on your face as you gracefully cruise along.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
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