Description
ABOUT THIS CAR
Produced between 1963 and 1971, the Mercedes-Benz W113 is regarded not only as a high point in the long history of the German marque’s SL model, but also as a coveted design icon.
Introduced at the 1963 Geneva Motor Show and based on the platform from the W111 saloon, it was styled by a team that included Paul Bracq and Béla Barényi, who was responsible for the concave hardtop that gave the model its ‘Pagoda’ nickname.
This latest SL was powered by a range of fuel-injected six-cylinder engines, starting with the 2308cc unit with which the 230 SL was launched. That was followed by the 2496cc 250 SL, which was produced from late 1966 to early 1968 and gained all-round disc brakes, while the final evolution was the 2778cc 280 SL, which was introduced in late 1967.
There was a choice between a four-speed automatic gearbox or a four- or five-speed manual, and air-conditioning was usually specified for cars sold in North America. More than half of 280 SL production was exported there.
Steering was via a recirculating-ball set-up, while the suspension combined double wishbones at the front and a low-pivot swing axle at the rear.
The W113 was intended to be a safe, comfortable Grand Tourer, and when Autocar tested one, it said that ‘the magic of this car … lies in its refinement, comfort and superb road behaviour’. Road & Track, meanwhile, concluded that ‘it is a well-proven, reliable car and the quality of its execution is a delight to the connoisseur of fine automotive machinery’.
The 280 SL being offered for sale here was first registered on 13 November 1970, making it a late example of the breed. Its long-term owner had it fully restored in the early 1990s by Autotech Motor Engineers, and the history file includes a raft of invoices from that time.
It was then treated to further work in 2016, after which it was used only sparingly before being sold in March 2019 via a Philip Serrell auction. The car’s next owners immediately had a new Tan mohair hood fitted and have looked after it with great care.
The result is a beautiful example of the 280 SL, with superb Sand Beige paintwork and a very smart, lightly patinated dark-brown interior that features a Radiomobile 8-Track player. Fitted with the automatic gearbox that perfectly complements its nature as a Grand Tourer, it exudes the combination of timeless style and engineering quality for which these cars are so rightly revered.
This 280 SL is a stylish and reliable car that’s perfect for classic car ownership of a style icon of the 70’s or a platform to enjoy classic car rallies on offer by Rally the Globe, Regularity, Hero or Bespoke Rallies.
The car is currently residing with Rally Preparation Services sister Company, RPS Storage Ltd and available for inspection.
All viewings and test drives welcomed through direct contact with Rally Preparation Services.
All email enquiries please contact us on using the button below or telephone +44(0)the details below
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