"The Mercedes-Benz W113 roadsters, designed by Paul Bracq, were produced from 1963 through to 1971 with their distinctive 'Pagoda' hardtop roof giving them their contemporary nickname. All models feature an inline six-cylinder engine with multi-port fuel injection using a mechanical pump system adapted from the diesel engine. All are rear-wheel drive and are equipped with independent rear suspension, a feature that greatly improved road handling. It made its debut at the prestigious Geneva Motor Show in March 1963 where Technical Director Fritz Nallinger introduced it as follows, It was our aim to create a very safe and fast sports car with high performance which, despite its sports characteristics, provides a high degree of travelling comfort. Mercedes-Benz Chief Engineer Rudolf Uhlenhaut, who was as competent behind the wheel as most racing drivers, demonstrated the capabilities of the 230 SL on a tight short race track near Montreux in 1963 where he put up a best lap time of 47.5 seconds and, incidentally, out-performed Mike Parkes in his Ferrari 250GT.
This 1966 230 SL Pagoda Mercedes-Benz has been subject to a restoration by a Hampshire based classic car restoration company, costing in excess of £200,000. The car is presented in silver with biscuit leather interior and has a new dark blue hood. Its original engine (included in the sale) was replaced by a 2.8 litre engine from a 1970 CE model, providing the car with better performance and is mated to an automatic gearbox. Recently this Pagoda has been treated to maintenance work to the braking system at a cost of circa £1,600. Offered with a V5C registration document, previous MoT test records, sundry invoices and an MoT test certificate valid until October 2023.Interested parties should note that whilst the car has been restored, we advise any prospective purchaser to read the condition report provided by Hemmels which can be obtained by way of a PDF from Historics or indeed can be seen in the history file at the auction. Since the report the Pagoda has had work carried out to the braking system at a cost of circa £1,600 and comes with a MoT test certificate valid until October 2023."