Codenamed W113, the encore to the Mercedes-Benz 190SL and 300SL was first introduced at the 1963 Frankfurt Auto Show as the 230SL. As neither the hairy-chested beast exemplified by the 300SL or the boulevard tourer of the 190SL, the new 230SL placed more of an emphasis on safety and comfort. It had the added distinction of the first Mercedes-Benz automobile to be fitted with an alternator as standard equipment. Off-the-shelf components included independent front and rear suspension and servo-assisted front disc and rear drum brakes, which helped to keep development and production costs within reason.

Perhaps most appealing about the car was its unique styling. Clearly linked to earlier Stuttgart designs, it featured the broad front grille of the 300SL, albeit in a squared-up shape. As with its predecessors, it was available as a roadster, roadster/coupe, or pure coupe. Most distinctive was its roofline, the so called "pagoda roof," designed by Paul Bracq and Bela Barenyi. The upright roofline contained lots of glass area, with raised sides and a lower center panel instead of curving conventionally upwards toward the middle, à la a Japanese pagoda. 

Production of 230SLs continued until the uprated 250SL made its debut at the 1967 Geneva show. Finally, Mercedes released the 280SL in early 1968. This car featured a number of significant changes, most notably an increased engine displacement to 2,778 cubic cm, with a bump in both torque and horsepower (to 180). Interiors were upgraded, along with a myriad of detail refinements. The final 280SL came off the assembly line in March 1971. A total of 23,885 were produced during the model run, making it the most popular of all the roadsters built to date. 

The LHD car we are delighted to offer was built July, 1969 and first registered in Germany. It is finished in the timeless combination of Black paintwork over a Black leather interior and features a colour-matched hardtop, power steering, automatic transmission with floor shift, steel wheels with colour-matched wheel covers, interior trim in wood, and white wall tyres.

It sits today U.K. registered and in excellent condition showing just over 36,000 miles and is ready to be enjoyed by its next owner. A timeless classic that has only become more desirable as years have passed; this attractive 280 SL is a delightful example of this storied model. Contact us now for more information or to arrange a viewing.