1970 Mercedes-Benz 280SL

Description

First introduced in March 1963, the 230 SL combined the fantastic sporting characteristics of the 300 SL with the cruising comforts of the 190 SL, creating a beautifully styled piece of 1960s automotive sculpture. The most notable of the many interesting styling features of the W113 SL is the concave ‘Pagoda’ hardtop, earning its nickname for its similarities to a Japanese Pagoda. This innovative design allows for a comfortable cabin with excellent visibility, and the SL’s Pagoda hardtop also maintains a strong roof structure. With continual development, the 230 SL’s engine was enlarged to 2.8-liters and power levels increased from 148 to 158 hp with a subsequent name change to 280 SL. Comfortable and effortlessly stylish, a well-sorted W113 SL like this is a true 'special-occasion' sports car and with the top down on a sunny day, one of life’s most enjoyable automotive experiences.

Highlights

• The history file shows receipts totaling over $51,000 in service history from 2001 to 2009, with restoration taking place from 2001 through 2003. Photos of the restoration at this time are below for review

• Over $28,000 was spent by the current owner from 2012 to the present, with documented invoices on file

• The robust 2.8-liter ‘M130’ fuel-injected six-cylinder engine long block was rebuilt in 2001 by Metric Motors and fitted with a stainless steel exhaust system, with the cylinder head being reconditioned in 2007

• The seats were reupholstered, and the dark brown convertible top was replaced in 2001

• The car is finished in the original color combination of ‘DB726’ Grey Beige with a dark brown leather interior

• In 2012 a new carpet was installed, the wood was restored, and a number of paint upgrades were completed to freshen the cosmetics

• Also in 2012, the hard top and hub caps were refinished in ‘DB423’ Tobacco Brown DB423, a period-correct color combination to match the visual color palette of the soft top

• The car was mechanically evaluated within the past 1,000 miles, and necessary services were completed. The engine compression was also tested at this time and is within specification. The air conditioning system was serviced and charged, and the vehicle received an alignment.

Features

• Becker Mexico Cassette Stereo

• Individual bucket-style seats

• Power steering

• Four-wheel, power disc brakes

• Kangol three-point seat belts 

• Original, frigiking air conditioning

• Automatic transmission

• Coco floor mats

Known Flaws 

A subtle patina can be seen in the engine compartment, showing that although only used sparingly, the car has been serviced regularly since the restoration.

Included

• Three keys

• Owner’s manual packet, including frigiking operators guide

• Tool roll

Ownership History

The car was restored in 2001 through 2003 by Spencer Co. During the restoration, the speedometer was rebuilt by Palo Alto Speedometer, where the original 82,874 miles were reset to zero. After the restoration, the car spent time in Hawaii before heading to the East Coast, where it has resided with the seller since 2012. Currently, the odometer displays 18,315 miles, the total since the completion of the restoration. Since the purchase of the car in 2012, the vehicle has received numerous mechanical and cosmetic upgrades from the well-known Mercedes-Benz restoration shop Precision Autoworks of Camden, New Jersey.

Additional Notes

A Broad Arrow Group Car Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner for this vehicle.

Contact: Harrison Platz Phone: 610.304.4525 email: harrison.platz@broadarrowgroup.com