Lot 174 - 1969 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagoda
| Lot Number | 174 |
| Registration | TOR 332G |
| Chassis Number | 11304412006608 |
| Engine Number | 130.983.10.04203 |
| Odometer reading | 59,035 miles |
| Result | Sold - £106,000 |
- Just completed a ground-up restoration
- Only covered 3,500 miles since being imported
- Fitted with period air conditioning
In 1963, Mercedes-Benz debuted an all-new roadster to replace the 190 SL and 300 SL - the 230 SL. The 230 SL 'Pagoda' was a stunning Paul Bracq designed two-seat convertible that followed Mercedes' new design language, featuring crisp lines and upright headlights. To save on weight, the bonnet, door-skins, 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. In 1967, Mercedes introduced the third and final iteration of the 'Pagoda', the 280 SL, and it then became apparent that some cars don't change, they just get better. The 280 featured the same modified W111 chassis with a rear swing axle and independent front suspension and four-wheel disc brakes. Power came from a 2.8 litre version of Mercedes inline-six and used Bosch fuel injection. A charming model with capable handling and braking thanks to its suspension and all-wheel disc brakes. 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.
This exceptional, left hand drive, 1969 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL ‘Pagoda’ was imported from the United States in 2012 as a completely rust-free example and fitted with period air conditioning. It was registered in the UK in October of the same year with an odometer reading of 55,454 miles, it was sold to the current owner a year later. He used it for a couple of years before putting the car away in storage with current mileage on the clock. The car has just had a complete, ground-up restoration by classic and custom car specialists Hot Rod Technologies based in Hayes, Middlesex. Whilst in restoration the car was brought up to European specification, this included removing the side marker lamps and fitting European style headlights. Finished in the fetching original colour blue, code number 903 with matching hardtop, new dark blue soft top roof and cream leather interior. This lovely Mercedes-Benz ‘Pagoda’ is supplied with a V5 registration document and photographs showing the restoration. These Pagodas are always a pleasure to drive, particularly in good weather when the roof is down and the smooth six-cylinder engine can be enjoyed.
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