1969 MERCEDES-BENZ 280SL                              Regis...

Estimate

£80,000 - £90,000

1969 MERCEDES-BENZ 280SL                             

Registration Number: PFJ 303G                      
Chassis Number:  TBA
Recorded Mileage: 93,000 miles

- Californian car in very good order
- Recent refurbishment works at a cost of c. £20,000
- Supplied with original Pagoda roof

‘Some cars don’t change, they just get better. The Mercedes-Benz 280 SL, latest version of a line that began as the 230 SL in 1963, is the same as ever, just better,’ concluded Road & Track after testing a 280 SL in 1968. ‘For those who value engineering finesse and high quality construction, it’s alone in the field,’ enthused the highly respected American motoring magazine, while its manufacturer considered the 280 SL, ‘a Grand Tourer in the traditional sense’ and ‘a unique combination of sports car performance and saloon car comfort (a Mercedes-Benz saloon naturally).’

These attributes help explain the 280 SL’s phenomenal success, particularly in the all-important North American market where the optional automatic transmission was considered an essential feature by the majority of customers. The fact that it looked like ‘sex on wheels’ helped enormously too, of course. The 280 SL’s essential user friendliness broadened its appeal beyond the traditional sports car-enthusiast market; many celebrities and film stars owned 280SLs. The last of a popular and extremely successful line begun with the 230 SL of 1963, the Mercedes-Benz 280 SL was introduced in 1967 powered by a new 2.8-litre six-cylinder engine that produced 180bhp, 20 horsepower more than the preceding 250 SL’s. The 280 SL’s 120mph top speed was no greater but it was significantly quicker off the mark, its 0-60mph time of 10 seconds being a whole second better than its predecessor’s. Christened ‘Pagoda’ after their distinctive cabin shape with its generous glass area, these SL models were amongst the best-loved sports-tourers of their day and remain highly sought after by collectors.

This original example was first delivered directly to the United States in 1971, finished in Horizon Blue with matching blue seats, carpets and navy mohair hood. Upon purchase by our vendor in early 2021, the SL was imported into the UK and subjected to a program of recommissioning and cosmetic refurbishment. Mechanical works included attention to the braking, suspension, and fuel systems. Whilst still in good order, the paintwork was completely repainted in its original shade of Horizon Blue, and much of the chromework was professionally refinished. There was a minor amount of corrosion within the boot floor area, as such a replacement floor panel was ordered and fitted. The SL was returned to European specification, with the fitment of the correct headlights, and removal of US side marker lights. Much of the interior trim, and also convertible roof, remain as per original. Finally the period Becker Mexico was converted to work with Bluetooth. Bills totalling c. £20,000 support the recent works completed. 

The result of all this attention is a very nicely refurbished classic Mercedes-Benz which performs on the road as well as it looks, and really needs nothing more than to be driven and enjoyed. The SL shows 93,000 miles recorded, and is complete with its original Pagoda hardtop and UK V5C.