1968 Mercedes-Benz 280SL 'Pagoda' 2+2 (W113)

Although exempt this vehicle now has a new MOT issued to expire on 4 November 2022

• Highly sought after right-hand drive, automatic 280SL Pagoda from 40 years caring ownership
• Data suggests that less than 10% of Pagodas manufactured were finished as California Coupes with occasional 2+2 seating
• Presented in sparkling Silver Metallic with a matching factory hard-top, red leather seats and red carpets
• Subject to a detailed and beautifully finished, award-winning restoration (MB Club "Best car on stand" – 2007)
• Comprehensive history file with buff log-book, a wealth of old MOTs and invoices for service and maintenance 
• Presented to the auction after a light recommission by CMC in Bridgnorth and a fresh MOT
• Offered from a deceased estate at a sensible guide

The Mercedes-Benz 280SL (W113)  'Pagoda' was introduced in December 1967 and continued in production through until February 1971 before being replaced by its successor, the entirely new and substantially heavier R107 350SL. Over the years, the W113 quietly evolved from a nimble 'sports car' into a comfortable 'grand tourer' and was usually equipped with four-speed automatic transmission and air conditioning. The final evolution of the Pagoda was the 280SL, launched in November 1967 with a host of technical improvements, and is now seen as the most refined iteration of the W113 Series with the robust new seven-bearing, 2778cc, M130 engine developing 170bhp and perfectly suiting the automatic transmission.

Offered here is a lovely, UK-supplied, right-hand drive 280SL 'Pagoda' California Coupé 2+2 finished in sparkling Metallic Silver with a colour matching hard-top, red leather interior and matching red trim. Our vendor's late husband purchased this Pagoda in 1981 and in the mid ‘80s some remedial works were completed to keep the car at its best. The Pagoda was enjoyed frequently until 1999 when the decision was made to instruct a full restoration by Shropshire-based Mercedes specialist , Classic Affair, and this process was documented, stage by stage, with supporting photographs. As a Mercedes-Benz Club UK member, our vendor's husband attended many events showing his Pagoda and such was the quality of the restoration that the car won several awards including the M-B Club " Best car on the Stand, 2007".

Dry stored correctly over the years, the restoration has mellowed nicely and the Pagoda still presents very well. After a small period of time off the road, the decision was made to have the car checked over and MOTd by the highly-regarded classic specialists, CMC, before being presented for auction at the Classic Motor Show.

Accompanying this venerable Mercedes is a comprehensive history file containing the aforementioned photographic record of the restoration, MB Club UK awards, the 'buff' logbook, a wealth of old MOTs, the current MOT and V5C and other related invoices and paperwork from over the years.

A right-drive 280 SL Pagoda is highly sought after and rightfully so, and this lovely example is offered at a very reasonable guide and is now ready for the next chapter after 40 years of caring private ownership.