"In 1963, Mercedes-Benz debuted an all-new roadster to replace the 190 SL and 300 SL - the 230 SL. The 230 SL 'Pagoda' was a stunning Paul Bracq designed two-seat convertible that followed Mercedes' new design language, featuring crisp lines and upright headlights. To save on weight, the bonnet, doorskins, boot lid, and tonneau cover were all composed of aluminium. The nickname 'Pagoda' was quickly adopted thanks to the slightly concave roof on the optional removable hardtop that resembled a pagoda roof. In 1967, Mercedes introduced the third and final iteration of the 'Pagoda', the 280 SL, and it then became apparent that some cars don't change, they just get better. The 280 featured the same modified W111 chassis with a rear swing axle and independent front suspension and four-wheel disc brakes. Power came from a 2.8 litre version of Mercedes inline-six and used Bosch fuel injection. A charming model with capable handling and braking thanks to its suspension and all-wheel disc brakes. These roadsters also have one of the most beautiful bodies produced in the 1960s. Thanks to their robust inline-six and their luxurious Mercedes interior, they are wonderful cars to be driven and enjoyed.
This excellent, right hand drive, 1969 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Pagoda has been subject to a two-year ground-up restoration by marque specialists Red Castle Classics based near Cardiff in South Wales. Since the restoration which was completed four years ago this car has only driven 350 miles. The first owner is unknown but from October 1978 it was owned by Mr. McMinn of Surbiton, he sold it in 1982 to Mr. Simon Peters who kept the car for many years until the car was sold, by his then widow, to Mr. Max Walker in July 2010 who shipped the car to his home in Jersey where he changed the colour from gold to metallic grey and upgraded the interior to black leather. This 280 SL returned to the mainland in 2012. Purchased by the current owner in April 2016 to join his small collection of SLs, he sent it directly for the restoration to be completed. It is believed the mileage of 45,700 miles is correct and is supported by old MoT test certificates which date back to 1982 at 18,240 miles and bills from June 1979 at 2,608 miles. Now superbly finished in the Mercedes-Benz classic colour scheme of silver with red leather interior, this 280 SL roadster is supplied with a matching factory hardtop, the desirable third seat option and a Becker Mexico radio from 1971. Supplied with the car is a V5 registration document, an MoT test certificate which expires in September 2021 and a file containing old MoT test certificates, sundry invoices including the invoice for the restoration at £80,000 plus VAT, the service book and the handbook. These Pagodas are always a pleasure to drive, particularly in good weather when the roof is down and the smooth six-cylinder engine can be enjoyed."