Lot details
Year: 1966
Make: Mercedes-Benz
Model: 230 SL Pagoda
Registration: HHV 230D
Chassis No: 11304222017611
Odometer: 16,847
• Incredibly low ownership and mileage
• Desirable '230' number plate included
In 1960, executive director Fritz Nallinger proposed to develop a completely new SL design, based on technology from the W112. This led to the W113 platform, with an improved fuel-injected 2.3 litre M127 inline six-cylinder engine. The Mercedes-Benz W113 roadsters, designed by Paul Bracq, were produced from 1963 through to 1971. They were known as the 'pagoda roof' SL. Most of these early SLs were sold with both the removable hardtop and a soft top. The 230 SL made a remarkable debut at the prestigious Geneva Motor Show in March 1963 where Nallinger introduced it as follows; "It was our aim to create a very safe and fast sportscar with high performance which, despite its sports characteristics, provides a very high degree of travelling comfort."
This particular 1966 Mercedes-Benz 230 SL represents a rare opportunity to acquire a UK home-market, European-specification example with exceptionally low recorded mileage and ownership. Having reportedly covered just 16,857 miles from new, the vendor's now deceased father bought the car on 6th October 1972 meaning the car has been in the family for 54 years! The paintwork displays some chips and areas of microblistering that would benefit from attention. Finished in Silver, the car underwent recommissioning work at Summit Motors in Maidenhead during August 2021. Having subsequently seen limited use, and whilst the car does run and drive, further recommissioning is now advised before returning it to the road.
With its exceptionally low recorded mileage, low ownership, original green logbook and accompanying factory hardtop, this 230 SL presents an intriguing opportunity for the Mercedes-Benz enthusiast. UK home-market examples combining such limited ownership with a remarkably low mileage are seldom encountered, making this an appealing prospect for a collector seeking a rewarding recommissioning project with particularly attractive underlying credentials. Consigned by Will Penrose