1968 Mercedes-Benz 250SL Pagoda

Launched in 1963 to replace the underpowered 190SL and utilising some of the new manufacturing techniques being adopted in the emerging S-Class, the Paul Bracq designed 230SL was proudly unveiled to an appreciative audience at the Geneva Motor Show. Remaining in production until 1971 with around 49,000 finding customers, the W113 Class, frequently referred to as the 'Pagoda', eventually spanned three engine sizes.

The same show in 1967 coincidentally, saw the introduction of the W113-250SL. The new car retained the stiffer suspension and sporty feel of the earlier cars, but provided improved agility with its larger(2.5Ltr.) engine and was now fitted with rear disc brakes and a larger tank.They were offered with a 4-speed Automatic transmission or a 4/5-speed ZF manual gearbox. Production ended in January 1968 and its one-year production run makes the 250SL the rarest of the W113 series.

Initially delivered to the UK in late March 1968, this right-hand drive, automatic, 250SL 'Pagoda' was first registered here on 1/04/1968. Originally finished in Silver, the car was repainted Signal Red with a Black roof in 1981. There is a fair bit of history with the car dating back to 1981 with most of the MOTs and invoices for servicing and maintenance. The current indicated mileage is 16,248 but we believe this is likely to be 116,248.

The car appears mechanically and cosmetically sound, the chrome is excellent and the brilliant red paintwork retains a deep shine. We understand from our vendor that the car is a "good daily driver". Accompanied by its soft and hard tops, a fresh MOT and sitting on four new tyres, this little red Pagoda is very appealing and the world's enthusiasm for these charismatic, sixties, Mercedes sports cars shows little sign of abating.