Mercedes 280 SL 'Pagode' - 1970
W113
A unique combination of sports car performance and saloon car comfort, the Mercedes-Benz 280 SL was a phenomenal success, particularly in the all-important North American market where the optional automatic transmission was considered an essential feature by the majority of customers. The fact that it looked like 'sex on wheels' helped enormously too, of course. The 280 SL's essential user friendliness broadened its appeal beyond the traditional sports car-enthusiast market; many celebrities and film stars owned 280 SLs and only a few years ago Bonhams sold that belonging to Oscar-nominated actress Leslie Ann Warren.
The last of a popular and extremely successful line begun with the 230 SL of 1963, the Mercedes-Benz 280 SL was introduced in 1967 powered by a new 2,8-litre six-cylinder engine that produced 180 bhp, 20 horsepower more than the preceding 250 SL's. The 280 SL's 120 mph top speed was no greater but it was significantly quicker off the mark, its 0-60 mph time of 10 seconds being a whole second better than its predecessor's.
Christened 'Pagoda' after their distinctive cabin shape - devised by French designer and classic car enthusiast, Paul Bracq - these SL models were amongst the best-loved sports-tourers of their day and remain highly sought after by collectors.
This late 280 SL (production ceased in 1971) was manufactured in November 1970 and registered new the following month in the USA. Original finished in Medium Blue with Horizon Blue convertible hood, it was supplied with tinted windows, right-side mirror, headrests, air conditioning, Becker Europa radio, and a hardtop with chromed fixings. The car is currently finished in Smoked Grey with matching hardtop, blue convertible hood, and blue interior.
Subsequently imported into Spain, this 280 SL was purchased in Germany by the current vendor in 2016. Recent maintenance works carried out (in September 2016) included replacing the cylinder head gasket and adjusting the valve clearances (invoices on file). Described by the vendor as in generally good condition, with very good engine and transmission, this best and most sought version of the Pagoda is offered with Belgian Carte Grise and Contrôle Technique.
Les Grandes Marques du Monde au Grand Palais
Bonhams
Sold for € 71.300
Estimated : € 70.000 - 90.000
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2017
Mercedes 280 SL 'Pagode' - 1970
W113
A unique combination of sports car performance and saloon car comfort, the Mercedes-Benz 280 SL was a phenomenal success, particularly in the all-important North American market where the optional automatic transmission was considered an essential feature by the majority of customers. The fact that it looked like 'sex on wheels' helped enormously too, of course. The 280 SL's essential user friendliness broadened its appeal beyond the traditional sports car-enthusiast market; many celebrities and film stars owned 280 SLs and only a few years ago Bonhams sold that belonging to Oscar-nominated actress Leslie Ann Warren.
The last of a popular and extremely successful line begun with the 230 SL of 1963, the Mercedes-Benz 280 SL was introduced in 1967 powered by a new 2,8-litre six-cylinder engine that produced 180 bhp, 20 horsepower more than the preceding 250 SL's. The 280 SL's 120 mph top speed was no greater but it was significantly quicker off the mark, its 0-60 mph time of 10 seconds being a whole second better than its predecessor's.
Christened 'Pagoda' after their distinctive cabin shape - devised by French designer and classic car enthusiast, Paul Bracq - these SL models were amongst the best-loved sports-tourers of their day and remain highly sought after by collectors.
This late 280 SL (production ceased in 1971) was manufactured in November 1970 and registered new the following month in the USA. Original finished in Medium Blue with Horizon Blue convertible hood, it was supplied with tinted windows, right-side mirror, headrests, air conditioning, Becker Europa radio, and a hardtop with chromed fixings. The car is currently finished in Smoked Grey with matching hardtop, blue convertible hood, and blue interior.
Subsequently imported into Spain, this 280 SL was purchased in Germany by the current vendor in 2016. Recent maintenance works carried out (in September 2016) included replacing the cylinder head gasket and adjusting the valve clearances (invoices on file). Described by the vendor as in generally good condition, with very good engine and transmission, this best and most sought version of the Pagoda is offered with Belgian Carte Grise and Contrôle Technique.
Les Grandes Marques du Monde au Grand Palais
Bonhams
Sold for € 71.300
Estimated : € 70.000 - 90.000
Parijs - Paris
Frankrijk - France
February 2017