Lot 215 - 1969 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL California
| Lot Number | 215 |
| Registration | 868 VC |
| Chassis Number | 1134422011100 |
| Engine Number | 13098322006958 |
| Odometer reading | 65,513 miles |
| Result | Sold |
- Offered from four decades of single ownership and just three owners from new
- Original right hand drive, matching numbers example
- Low mileage example last purchased for over £113,000
- In very original condition throughout and offered with its private registration number
The stylish Mercedes-Benz W113 was presented at the 1963 Geneva Motor Show and replaced both the expensive 300 SL and entry-level 190 SL with one medium-priced two-seat sports car. The SL was a huge success, with 48,912 sold in nine years, and is now considered a true masterpiece. The body combines the elegantly trim look of contemporary Mercedes saloons with a simple grille derived from the 300 SL. Béla Barényi conceived the patented concave hardtop, soon called the ‘Pagoda.’ Like the best designs, the W113 has proven to be timeless in its appeal.
We are pleased to offer this superb low mileage, three owner from new example which is an original and rare ‘California Coupé', with the single bench seat as designated by option '417' on its factory record.
Originally purchased in July 1969 by its first owner, a Mr. Luigi Bresciani an Italian ice cream manufacturer who ordered the Mercedes as a retirement present to himself. Interestingly Mr. Besciani ordered the Pagoda in UK right hand drive specification but had it delivered to his Italian residence. Later in 1972 he returned to England to join his family bringing the Pagoda with him. The Pagoda remained his pride and joy until 1982 when at the age of 80 he found his health failing and with great reluctance arranged for the car to be sold. At this stage, the car had covered some 51,000 miles. The car was then sold to its second owner, who at this time carried out various maintenance work to insure the car was ready for further use. The Mercedes was enjoyed for a further 8,000 miles and was taken around the country as well as on the continent. More recently 868 VC was purchased by our vendor at Historics auction for a figure of £113,200, elated by his purchase there were no thoughts to sell until he received the news that his driving licence was to be rescinded therefore he is forced to sell after a relatively short tenure.
Offered with over four decades of single ownership, this superb example has covered a mere 65,513 miles and has had just three owners from new having been purchased recently for over £113,000. Accompanying the Pagoda is a sizeable history file with many documents, sundry bills, service records, MoT test certificates, and even the March 1983, edition of Classic and Sports which the car featured in!
Having been dry stored since 1982, this Mercedes was last MoT’d in the early 2000’s and has been used sparingly since but recently recommissioned by our vendor and running. Presented in very good, preserved condition the paintwork retains a deep shine and shows little sign of age as does the interior and chrome work. Having covered little mileage from new and with a superb three owner history, this example represents a fantastic opportunity to acquire an ever-desirable right hand drive 280 SL Pagoda. We expect this wonderful example to be keenly contested at auction.
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.