1969 Mercedes-Benz 280SL
Overview
This beautiful, well sorted Mercedes-Benz 280SL ‘Pagoda’ was first delivered on April 14, 1969, specified for the US market. Repainted in 040 Black with a matching hard top, it has featured 140 Cognac MB Tex upholstery from new. It’s factory equipment further included an automatic transmission (floor shift), bumper guards, instruments in English, a driver’s side outer rearview mirror, Becker Europa AM/FM stereo, tinted glass and white wall tires.
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Completed in 2018, an exacting restoration was commissioned by then-owner and renowned Texas-based collector, Dr. Ali Emani. Full cosmetic and mechanical refurbishment directed by Mercedes-Benz specialist, Arnold Sender, of ProSpeed, yielded a color change from its original 291 Dark Olive paint, and all new 140 Cognac MB Tex upholstery. Updated electronic ignition and a period-correct air conditioning system made good on the owner’s aims for an elegant, carefree driving experience. Under subsequent ownership, it was found that the car had also previously received a correct ‘Tauschaggregat’ factory replacement engine, tag numbered 605498.
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A high-quality example of the widely appreciated W113 Mercedes-Benz 280SL, this roadster has been recently cared for and vetted by Scott Grundfor Company of Arroyo Grande, California. Regularly shown and awarded, it stands primed and ready for events and regular driving use. A Seller’s Disclosure, period literature, service records, tools, and more accompany the sale.
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Completed in 2018, an exacting restoration was commissioned by then-owner and renowned Texas-based collector, Dr. Ali Emani. Full cosmetic and mechanical refurbishment directed by Mercedes-Benz specialist, Arnold Sender, of ProSpeed, yielded a color change from its original 291 Dark Olive paint, and all new 140 Cognac MB Tex upholstery. Updated electronic ignition and a period-correct air conditioning system made good on the owner’s aims for an elegant, carefree driving experience. Under subsequent ownership, it was found that the car had also previously received a correct ‘Tauschaggregat’ factory replacement engine, tag numbered 605498.
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A high-quality example of the widely appreciated W113 Mercedes-Benz 280SL, this roadster has been recently cared for and vetted by Scott Grundfor Company of Arroyo Grande, California. Regularly shown and awarded, it stands primed and ready for events and regular driving use. A Seller’s Disclosure, period literature, service records, tools, and more accompany the sale.
Features & Options
- W113 'Pagoda' 280SL, Comprehensive restoration completed in 2018
- US delivery April 14th, 1969
- Chassis no. 113044 12 008872
- 040 Black exterior paint
- 140 Cognac MC Tex upholstery
- 040 Black hardtop
- Beige fabric soft top
- M130 inline-six engine
- 4-speed automatic transmission
- 4-wheel disc brakes
- Updated electronic ignition
- Period air conditioning unit
- Becker Europa AM/FM radio
Service Records
- Seller's Disclosure
- Limited records from prior ownership / restoration by Mercedes-Benz specialist, Arnold Sender, of ProSpeed (2018)
- Recent service records from work with Scott Grundfor Company (Nov 2024)
Oil & filter change service.
Cold start valve replaced
Tach cable removed, serviced and replaced
Heater valve inspected, removed, repaired, replaced
Turn signal repaired
A/C system recharged with freon
Cold start valve replaced
Tach cable removed, serviced and replaced
Heater valve inspected, removed, repaired, replaced
Turn signal repaired
A/C system recharged with freon
Ownership History & Provenance
- Purchased out of Southern California in 2013 by Dr. Ali Emani, a long-time Texas based collector, this Mercedes-Benz ‘Pagoda’ presented an ideal, highly original candidate for restoration. A meticulous cosmetic and mechanical “open checkbook” overhaul ensued over the course of several years, leading to the current, superbly rendered condition of the car today.
- A second collector in Dallas purchased the vehicle in 2022, then discovering the car had received a dealer-issued factory replacement engine in period. Since, the car has claimed local awards including a Sponsors Trophy (a top 3 prize) at the Park Cities Car Show in 2022, and First Prize for the Mercedes Benz Club – North Texas Chapter summer show in 2022.
- The car has always been stored in an air conditioned facility in Dallas, Texas since purchase by the current owner with periodic servicing by Arnold Sender and later by Scott Grundfor Company as of late 2024.
Known Shortcomings
Sotheby's Motorsport presents this auction in partnership with the seller. This 1969 Mercedes-Benz 280SL shows wear consistent with its age and refurbished condition according to a seller’s disclosure. Please review the entire document by clicking "Seller's Disclosure" above.
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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.
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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.
Items included in the Sale
- 1 key fob
- Owner's manual & service books
- Period literature
- Build sheet
- Service records from current & previous ownership
- Refinished hard top (original to the vehicle) on rolling stand
- MB W113 authentic toolkit with spare wheel & tire