1970 Mercedes-Benz 280SL (W113) Pagoda

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 4-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, 2,778cc, M130 engine developing 170bhp and perfectly suiting the automatic transmission.

Offered here is right-hand drive, automatic transmission example finished in the classic combination of Astral Silver with black leather and a black hard top. Dating from1970, it's quite a late example and the indicated mileage of just under 34,500, could well be correct but can’t be warranted. However, it does have a decent history file containing various invoices, MOTs etc. from over the years. Interestingly, the file also shows that a previous owner was Alexander Paul Kapranos Huntley, the Scottish musician, singer, songwriter, record producer and author who is best known as the lead singer and guitarist of Scottish rock band Franz Ferdinand.

A right-drive 280 SL Pagoda is highly sought after and rightfully so, and this lovely example is offered at a very reasonable guide. We welcome any inspection of this classic Mercedes.