1966 MERCEDES-BENZ 230 SL "PAGODA"
Designer: Paul Bracq Béla Barényi

Estimate: $70,000 - ­ $90,000

Chassis Number: 1130421208815
Decoded: 113=’Pagoda’ SL; 042=2.3 Liter Engine; 1=Left Hand Drive; 2=Automatic
Transmission; 08815=Serial Number
Engine: 2.3 Liter Straight­-Six Engine
Bosch Mechanical Fuel Injection / 150 bhp
4­-Speed Automatic Transmission
Power Assisted Front Disc and Rear Drum Hydraulic Brakes
Mileage: 898

• Only 200 Miles Since Complete Restoration
• Pagoda Hard and Soft Tops Included
• Iconic First Generation Pagoda SL in Impeccable Condition

The Model: The unlikely design brief that led to the iconic 230 SL aimed to replace both the expensive legendary 300 SL and the underperforming 190 SL. Development difficulties delayed launch until 1963, but the result was spectacular. The new 230 SL was the first sports car with a rigid passenger compartment and purpose­-built impact absorbing crumple zones in the front and rear. The safety emphasis continued in the interior design by removing all hard corners and sharp edges to give the 230 SL one of the most attractive German interiors of the period. The 230 SL debuted at the 1963 Geneva Motor as the first Mercedes­-Benz with radial tires. The advanced suspension, powerful brakes and radial tires gave the new sports car superior handling capabilities. Mercedes made extensive use of aluminum panels to hold the weight down to 2,800 pounds enabling the injected 2.3 liter inline six to take the 230 SL to 124 mph.

The Car: This exquisite 230 SL has just emerged from an exacting complete restoration to Mercedes­-Benz standards. With just 200 miles since the restoration, this car is as fresh as you can find. Presented in its brilliant original color of metallic red with a flawless cream leather interior, this 230 SL is ready to go and show. The fully ­appointed interior also features a desirable Becker Mexico radio. In addition to the fresh cloth top, the iconic ‘pagoda’ hardtop in matching color is also included. With so few early ‘pagoda’ Mercedes available, this top condition car is not only an outstanding investment but sure to be the cornerstone of any great collection.