1968 | Mercedes-Benz 280 SL

The Mercedes-Benz 280 SL was introduced in December 1967 and continued in production until February 1971. An all new design by Paul Bracq to replace the 190 SL and 300 SL Roaster. The 280 SL had a powerful 2.8 litre version of Mercedes inline-six and used Bosch fuel injection. To save on weight, the bonnet, boot lid and tonneau cover were all composed of aluminium. The nickname 'Pagoda' was quickly adopted thanks to the slightly concave roof on the optional removable hardtop that resembled a pagoda roof. The comparatively short and wide chassis, combined with an excellent suspension, powerful disc brakes and radial tyres gave the W113 superb handling for its time. These roadsters also have one of the most beautiful bodies produced in the 1960s. Thanks to their robust inline-six and their luxurious Mercedes interior, they are wonderful cars to be driven and enjoyed. The styling of the front paid homage to the legendary 300 SL with its characteristic upright Bosch 'fishbowl' headlights and simple chrome grille, dominated by the large three-pointed star in the nose panel.

This fantastic and rare manual gearbox 280 SL is offered for sale at a very reasonable guide price. Subject to a full restoration by Mercedes-Benz main agent Hughes of Beaconsfield in the late 1980's, it was a no expense spared exercise at the time and reportedly a very impressive example of what would now be considered a concours restoration, having had every part restored or replaced. The eye watering list of parts and receipts from Hughes of Beaconsfield are included in the car's history file. Later sold by Beaulieu Garage in 2005, they described the car at the time as the “finest we have had the pleasure to offer”. First registered on 21st October 1968, this example shows only four former keepers on the supplied V5C registration document. The vendor, the 5th keeper, has lavished the same care upon the car and whilst the paint shows a fair bit of micro blistering, it has had over £17,000 spent with industry leaders the SL Shop and a further £1,578 with Roger Edwards Motors in the past two years alone.

Supplied with a V5C registration document, 280 SL handbook, many receipts including the Hughes of Beaconsfield restoration invoices, old MoT test certificates and tax discs. A fantastic and rare example of the Pagoda flagship model offered in the most desirable specification, this wonderful 280 SL is an excellent example of these Bavarian masterpieces. Consigned by Will Penrose

Lot details
Year: 1968
Make: Mercedes-Benz
Model: 280 SL Pagoda
Registration: DPO 296G
Chassis No: 11304420005393
Odometer: 6,919


* Rare and desirable right hand drive manual gearbox example

* £17,284 spent with SL Shop in the past year

* Hardtop included