Description
- Totally unrestored!
- 53 years with same owner
- Rare California-version
After its iconic predecessor, the 190SL, left its competition far behind, it was time for innovation. Designer Paul Bracq created not only a car that was modern and safe, but also a very elegant appearance. In addition to its clean lines, the new model featured beautiful details and a striking removable hardtop, whose concave roof earned it the nickname “Pagoda. The press raved about the car's stunning looks and comfortable handling.
Although aesthetically the first 250SL looked like the classic 230, since its introduction it benefited from technical modifications and innovations that would later be found in the 280. These modifications made the 250SL look like a beautiful 230, but feel like a newer 280 while driving. A total of 48, 912 Pagodas were produced, of which the 250SL is by far the rarest with only 1 production year and 5, 196 examples.
A manual 250 SL “California” is a unique model, named after the American state because this special version was mostly ordered in warmer climates. While a typical Pagoda could get optional rear seats for up to one person, the California distinguishes itself by using a large double (!) rear seat.
This magnificent example in Tunis-Beige Metallic was delivered to its first owner in Belgium in August 1967. After several years, the 250SL was sold in 1971 to a family friend, who has owned the car for 53 years since then. With only one previous owner, the complete service history is available. The service book is stamped by Mercedes and an additional stack of maintenance bills confirms that this is a true enthusiast's car. Currently, this original Pagoda has covered only 156, 000 km, which implies that it was only used for pleasure drives under the most perfect conditions. Furthermore, the car comes with the original owner's manual and two additional manuals specific to the 250SL motorization and the W113 body style.
This Pagoda stands out from all others in that it is exceptionally original, completely unrestored and beautifully patinated. Originally, the car came in as an example for several Pagodas we were restoring ourselves. The incredibly high level of originality makes this Pagoda feel like a true time capsule. The stunning chrome work, wood trim and original carpets show no signs of wear. The leather is beautifully nourished and as a result the seats, door panels and dashboard still feel as they did on the day of delivery. The interior is further finished off with an original Philips radio and a sporty, manual gear shifter.
The car starts easily and, with 150 horsepower, has power in abundance. The transmission shifts buttery smooth through all the gears, the seats are extremely comfortable and the steering feels pleasantly light. It goes without saying that driving this beauty is an absolute pleasure.
This unique Pagoda is an opportunity out of a thousand and meets every possible criteria: a completely unrestored Belgian car in original paint, the sought-after 250 engine with manual transmission, a rare California top and owned by the same Mercedes enthusiast family for over 50 years.
