Lot 161 - 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagoda
| Lot Number | 161 |
| Registration | ADE 122J |
| Chassis Number | 11304410018081 |
| Engine Number | 13098310006644 |
| Odometer reading | 8,513 km |
| Estimate | £75,000 - £90,000 |
The 190 SL was a beautiful design and, seemingly, impossible to follow. However, in 1963, Mercedes-Benz debuted an all-new roadster. The 230 SL 'Pagoda' was a stunning Paul Bracq-designed two-seat convertible that followed Mercedes' new design language. The lines were more crisp with weight saved by the increased use of aluminium panels. In 1967, Mercedes- Benz introduced the third and final iteration of the 'Pagoda', the 280 SL, which, the purists will tell you, finally gave the Pagoda adequate power. This came from a robust 2.8 litre, six cylinder engine with Bosch fuel injection and, combined with eminently capable handling, decent disc brakes all round, made for wonderful driver’s cars.
I have no hesitation in describing this superb example as one of the finest available today. Forming the cornerstone of an extremely high quality private collection, this was sent to Mercedes-Benz specialists, ‘German Autohaus’ and completely stripped back to bare metal in 2004 and then became the subject of a painstaking rotisserie restoration. Repainted back to its correct cream colour with a contrasting tan interior, the work was instructed to reflect a motorcar in ‘concours’ condition. All parts and assemblies have been overhauled including, but not confined to all suspension, engine & gearbox and differential. Parts found to be in poor condition were replaced by new items. The interior was re-upholstered and all chrome was re-chromed. The result won, unsurprisingly, prizes wherever it went. There is even an image on file of the underside being polished. With just 3,000 miles travelled since these works took place and comprehensive servicing undertaken during that time, this example, complete with hardtop, could certainly not be recreated for the asking price attached.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.