Chassis No. 113.044.12.020026

Codenamed W113, the Mercedes-Benz "Pagoda" made its debut as the 230 SL at the 1963 Frankfurt Auto Show, introducing a new era for the brand's luxury sports convertibles. The new SL placed a strong emphasis on safety, comfort, and refined driving dynamics without sacrificing its sporting character. At its heart was a Bosch fuel-injected 2.3-liter six-cylinder engine producing 150 horsepower, paired with independent front suspension, and servo-assisted front disc brakes complemented by rear drums.

Styling played a significant role in the W113's wide-ranging appeal, with Paul Bracq and Béla Barényi, alongside Friedrich Geiger-the designer of the famed 300 SL and 540 K-shaping its elegant yet purposeful design. The car earned its "Pagoda" nickname thanks to its distinctive concave removable hardtop, which provided exceptional visibility with a large glass area and allowed for versatile, all-weather driving. The upright roofline, featuring raised edges with a lower center section, drew comparisons to Japanese pagodas while enhancing the car's structural integrity in the event of a rollover.

The W113 evolved further with the introduction of the 250 SL in 1967, offering refinements to braking and handling, before reaching its final and most developed form with the 280 SL in 1968. The 280 SL featured a larger 2.8-liter inline-six-cylinder engine, now producing 180 horsepower with increased torque, providing a notable improvement in drivability and responsiveness. Interiors received additional upgrades, including subtle improvements that further elevated the SL's comfort and sophistication.

Built in July 1970 and finished in vibrant Signal Red (568), this 280 SL remains a charming example today. The car features a set of iconic painted hubcaps in matching Signal Red, as well as a removable hard top with an electrically heated rear window for all weather touring use. Inside, the interior is trimmed in Black MB-Tex with the correct style of Black square-weave carpeting, a Becker Europa radio, manual windows, and a lockable glove compartment. Power comes from a 2.8-liter "M130" fuel-injected inline-six paired with a four-speed automatic transmission and power steering for added convenience. With elegant sixties styling, this classic 280 SL "Pagoda" is an attractive example of a well-engineered and highly sought-after Mercedes-Benz.