1969 | Mercedes-Benz 280SL

Debuting in March 1963 at the Geneva Motor Show, the W113-generation Mercedes-Benz SL succeeded the famous 300SL Gullwing and the 190 SL that followed. The W113-generation SL was also referred to as the ‘Pagoda’ due to the design of the top roof section, which resembled the unique concave roofs seen on Asian temples. Initially debuting as the 230 SL with a 2.3-litre inline-six engine under the hood, the 280 SL arrived in 1968 with a larger 2.8-liter inline six-cylinder engine, giving a much-needed boost in power and slightly faster speed - though despite the performance increase, it remained focused on fulfilling the mission of a smooth and comfortable long-distance tourer.
 
This 1969 Mercedes-Benz 280SL on offer at Sotheby's Motorsport has previously undergone a comprehensive, full, engine out restoration performed by well known Mercedes Benz SL Pagoda specialist, Beverly Hill Motors, based in Houston, Texas. Detailed records are provided,  including photos of the vehicle at various stages of the restoration and all of the invoices for parts ordered - clearly illustrating the roughly $90K plus invested in the restoration across a period of two years in 2015-17 to restore it to prime factory original condition, with no expense spared restoring the exterior, interior, functions, running gear, and undercarriage. Every system was meticulously addressed: the engine and drivetrain were removed and inspected, including the transmission, driveshaft, axles, and bearings for smooth, reliable performance. Suspension and brakes were completely overhauled with new shocks, bushings, steering components, and fully rebuilt front and rear brake systems. The body received rust repair, metal fabrication, new components. Originally delivered from factory in Tobacco Brown, a professional paint change was done to a period correct Mercedes Benz factory color and then reassembled with rechromed trim and restored lighting. Inside, the car features new carpets, reupholstered seats, a restored dashboard, fresh seals, and polished trim. The convertible top was replaced and the hardtop was refurbished with new materials, seals, and rechromed hardware. All electrical and accessory systems—including the radio, instruments, updated R134A A/C, heater, and wipers—were restored and are fully functional. The result is a turn-key classic ready for show or spirited drives.
 
The body, now sporting an Anthracite Grey paint finish, brings other signature Pagoda SL exterior traits that have all undergone refurbishment, including color-coordinated hubcaps, chrome exterior front and rear bumpers, along with a color-matched fixed hardtop roof, interchangeable with a new dark brown soft top convertible roof. The cabin features new Cognac leather upholstery, matched with new carpet. A two-tone dashboard with anthracite grey and new wood trim faces both the driver and passenger. An original period correct Frigiking air conditioning unit was sourced, restored and updated with modern components including R134A coolant and incorporated into the cabin for added comfort, complementing the Becker AM/FM radio system, VDO analog clock, and wood-trimmed period correct three-spoke Nardi steering wheel. A restored 2.8L inline-six cylinder engine drives the rear wheels, mated to a 4-speed manual transmission, allowing for greater driver involvement and input when handling this classic Mercedes. 
 
The odometer presently reads just under 95,000 miles, with minimal use since the conclusion of the refurbishment. Accompanying the sale of this 280SL includes 2 sets of keys, fixed hardtop roof with roof holder, original roof locking handles, build sheet, purchase documentation, various owner's literature, historical documents, complete original tool kit, original factory steering wheel, full-size spare wheel/cover and original jack. A thorough and detailed restoration, oriented towards factory correctness, makes this example one of the most desirable Pagodas on the market today, ensuring decades of future enjoyment.

 

• 2.8L inline-six cylinder engine
• 4-speed manual transmission
• Power steering 
 

• Softtop convertible roof 
• Color-coordinated fixed hardtop roof 
• Color-coordinated Mercedes-Benz hubcaps
• Chrome front and rear exterior bumpers 
• Chrome door handles 
• Chrome exterior light surrounds (headlights, side markers, rear tailights)
• ‘280SL’ exterior badging
 

• Cognac Leather upholstery 
• Cognac manually-adjustable leather seats with head restraints 
• Cognac leather side door panels
• Cognac leather dashboard padding with upper wood trim surface 
• Black leather trim surrounding AC unit
• New interior carpeting 
• Becker AM/FM radio 
• Air vents 
• Defroster 
• VDO dashboard clock 
   

Provided invoices and information from the seller state this 280SL underwent a professional, engine out, full restoration between 2015 to 2017 by classic Mercedes Benz specialist Beverly Hills Motors of Houston, TX. 

 

 

May 1, 2015

 

 

May 12, 2015

 

 

July 10, 2015 

 

 

July 15, 2015 

 

 

July 19, 2015 

 

 

July 23, 2015 

 

 

August 24, 2015 

 

 

January 4, 2016 

 

Exterior stripped and prepared for paint/bodywork refurbishment

 

Various exterior trim pieces rechromed

 

Interior refurbishment 

 

January 14, 2016 

 

 

February 27, 2016 

 

 

May 27, 2016

 

 

May 28, 2016 to October 3, 2016

 

Provided information states this Mercedes-Benz 280SL first arrived in the United States in December 1967. The selling dealer reports that they have owned this car for roughly 12 years and have accumulated around 1,500 miles under their ownership. This 280SL is currently located with the selling dealer in Louisiana. 

 

Sotheby's Motorsport presents this auction in partnership with the selling dealer. This 1969 Mercedes-Benz 280SL shows wear consistent with its age, low mileage, and restored condition according to a Seller's Disclosure. Please review the entire document by clicking "Seller's Disclosure" above. 
 

Please click the “Contact Seller” button to reach out with any condition-specific questions. This car is sold where-is, as-is, and bidder is responsible for all due diligence regarding vehicle condition.