1967 Mercedes Benz 250 SL Pagoda California

If they built cars in Monte-Carlo they'd look like this. The SLs Paul Bracq shape is simple and beautifully drawn, yet classy and almost timeless. The car offered here is actually a very rare example as it was officially called the 'California'. If a customer took up the 'Code 417' option, the car would be supplied with a hardtop but minus the hood, with the rear cabin extended to the end of where the compartment containing the folded hood would have been. The extra space was occupied by a conventional folding seat. Mercedes built this model for cruising down the sun-drenched boulevard, however it was also available here in the not-so sun-drenched UK. Certainly, this ageless grace has given the evergreen W113 a truly distinctive aura and the list of celebrity owners also tells a story; Sophia Loren, Kate Moss - if ever a car was a styling icon, then this is surely it.

We are informed by the vendor that this particular car has only had two registered owners from new; the first from 1967 to 1978 and the second from 1978 onwards. We are told that the driving experience is surprisingly modern, with a smooth automatic gearbox and a six cylinder engine that responds well and emits a muted but purposeful bark under acceleration. Brakes are good and the ride is supremely comfortable. Interestingly, the vendor possess the original build data card which indicates its original colour as Silver, along with 29 previous MoT certificates and, as such, warrants the cars mileage of 108321.

The fabulous dashboard mixes chrome and body colour to great effect, the seats offer good support, are comfortable and indicate a car that has clearly been used rather than a museum piece. The large steering wheel with chrome horn ring is a joy and is the centre piece of this cars iconic appeal.

We are informed that the engine is quick to fire up and settles readily to a smooth idle. It pulls well through acceleration and all gauges show all to be well at normal operating temperatures.

This car is much more about style and comfort than sporty pretensions but rising values mean this particular car is not only a great investment but an all-round very capable machine, offered at a very reasonale price given current W113 prices. Sold with a fresh MoT, you simply cannot help but be swept up by this cars youthful 47 years in its sway for a carefree day of classic car motoring.