1967 | Mercedes-Benz 230 SL

This well-preserved 230 SL 'Pagoda' was built late in 1966 and delivered new to Jacksonville, Florida, where it was registered in the beginning of 1967. It is a desirable 4-speed manual transmission example in the first series of the model, making it perhaps the 'purest' of all the 'Pagodas' (150hp, short gearbox, and differential make it very fast for the sixties).

Resprayed a long time ago, the car remains in its original color combination with a beautiful 'Cognac' interior, and it has a newly fitted dark blue soft-top hood.

The car's provenance is impressive. It comes with a copy of its original purchase invoice and was sold new to the Cornely family, in whose possession it remained for 16 years. It was then sold to Donald Peterson in 1982, Mr. Peterson being the well-known owner of a vast collection of classic cars, a highly respected appraiser of classics across many marques, the founding editor of 'Car Collector Magazine,' and a car show judge with experience gained at countless events, including Pebble Beach and Amelia Island – to name but two.

Highly original throughout, the car's front wings have the right spot welds and notches next to the headlights, the hardtop, and even the Kuhlmeister air-conditioning. The car's Data Card mentions the following options: 493 heavy-duty heat-exchanger; 508 left outside rearview mirror; 524 paint-coat preservation; 600 hardtop chrome trim. New items include the exhaust system and the fabric hood. Inside, the MB-Tex upholstery is also original, having been refurbished rather than replaced. It boasts the optional third seat and has been fitted with a classic-looking Bluetooth radio (original Becker radio in the trunk). The insulation of the bulkhead is new, as well as the ignition, expansion vase, ad brake booster, and exhaust line. It has factory power steering, this being a factory option that was ticked on almost all vehicles to have left the factory. Taking into account the very rare full documentation and history file, this must be one of the very few good original Pagodas left. Of course, after more than 60 years, most cars are ready for a full restoration and hence 'reconstructed taking into account the taste and skill of the restorer/owner. This example is a unique opportunity for someone who wants to combine unmolested originality with a great history and at least another decade of fun.