Mercedes-Benz 280SL Pagoda from 1st hand!
The Mercedes-Benz 280SL Pagoda, produced from 1967 to 1971, is an iconic convertible and coupé known for its elegant shape and exceptional design. The name “Pagoda” comes from the characteristic, inwardly curved roof line, which is reminiscent of Asian pagodas. Under the hood of the 280SL is a powerful 2.8-liter six-cylinder engine, which offers an output of around 170 hp and a maximum torque of 240 Nm. This engine enables impressive acceleration and ensures dynamic driving pleasure. The 280SL was available with both a 4-speed manual gearbox and a 4-speed automatic gearbox. The interior of the Pagoda is characterized by high-quality materials and well thought-out ergonomics that enhance driving comfort. The seats are comfortable and offer sufficient space, while the dashboard is equipped with clear instruments that provide the driver with all the necessary information. The 280SL is not only very popular with collectors, but is also appreciated by car enthusiasts who value the combination of style, performance and driving pleasure. With its timeless design and outstanding workmanship, the Pagoda remains a symbol of Mercedes-Benz engineering and a classic in automotive history.
Special leather upholstery, power steering, leather cross-seat in the rear, front seat belts and the iconic coupé roof, also in dark red, were the extras at the time.
The vehicle was in use for the Brackwede-based company for several summers before the entrepreneur took over his sports car privately. On his death, it passed into the possession of his son, who then had it professionally decommissioned in 1990.
It is in absolutely original condition and has never been restored.
2024 entrusted by the buyer’s grandson to bring the vehicle back to life.
We discovered that it was a vehicle with matching numbers, whose bodywork had been repainted in the original dark red 542 color in the same shade of the period quality and was technically in immaculate condition. There was only a superficial rust spot under the battery, which we removed professionally. Apart from that, the bodywork, which we freed of all add-on parts and carefully checked in the course of recommissioning, was completely free of rust and corresponding “touch-ups”. The notorious body openings under the headlights were already welded shut in the past using the method of the time with sheet metal, which was then painted in the color of the car together with the weld seams. We have rarely come across such a good, actually perfect body substance in all these years.
Leather, carpet, chrome parts – everything is in very good original condition.
The engine, clutch, chassis and brake system have all been overhauled by us and are now in top condition.
As the vehicle was delivered without headrests, the lines look particularly elegant. And the fact that the original three-point seat belts installed are rigid means that you can still legally drive without wearing your seat belts in the 21st century – if you wish to do so.
Very good documentation with service booklet, first purchase invoice, copy of the old vehicle registration document, data cards and operating instructions.
Our extensive work over 6 months on this vehicle is also extensively documented and illustrated.