1967 Mercedes-Benz 280SL Chassis no. 113.044.12-023143

1967 Mercedes-Benz 280SL
Chassis no. 113.044.12-023143

2,778cc SOHC Inline 6-Cylinder Engine
Bosch Mechanical Fuel Injection
160bhp at 5,700rpm
3-Speed Automatic Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes

* Desirable, automatic, transmission equipped example
* Includes both hard 'Pagoda' top and folding soft top
* Elegant color scheme
* Desirable European delivered car new

THE MERCEDES-BENZ 280SL

In 1967, Mercedes introduced the third and final iteration of the 'Pagoda', the 280SL, and it then became apparent that some cars don't change, they just get better. "The Mercedes-Benz 280SL, the latest version of a line that began as the 230SL in 1963, is the same as ever, just better," concluded Road & Track after testing a 280SL 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 280SL: "a Grand Tourer in the traditional sense" and "a unique combination of sports car performance and saloon car comfort (a Mercedes-Benz saloon naturally)."

The 280 featured the same modified W111 chassis with a rear swing axle and independent front suspension and four-wheel disc brakes. Power came from a 2.8-liter version of Mercedes' robust inline-six and used Bosch fuel injection, a combination producing 160 horsepower in US-market variants, which had to be modified slightly to comply with emissions standards. To compensate, the rear-end ratios were changed in these US-market cars to offer greater low-end acceleration.

While the 280SL did not offer the performance of the 300SL, it is a very charming model with capable handling and braking thanks to its suspension and discs all around. These roadsters also have one of the most beautiful bodies produced in the 1960s. Thanks to their robust inline-six and their luxurious Mercedes interior, they are wonderful cars to be driven and enjoyed.

THE CAR OFFERED

Presented here is an exceedingly charming example of the W113 Mercedes-Benz. Completed in June of 1968, it was ordered from the factory adorned in paint code 903 H 'Blue' paint with a matching hardtop, however it was repainted at a point in a shade likely 304 G 'Horizon Blue'. Inside, Navy MB-Tex over Navy carpets offset the exterior colors nicely. A European market car, it was fitted with a left side mirror, desirable, 3-speed automatic transmission. Also fitted without headrests, which really keep the lines of the car clean.

Purchased by the consignor's father in 1968 in Europe while on holiday and then exported to the Boston area. Joining a stable of other European sports cars, it was used sparingly over the next 45 years. During their ownership the color was changed to a more uniform Navy-Navy specification. The European Speedometer/Odometer reads 19,641 kilometers. After having been put away for a few years, a minimal amount of work was needed to awaken the and done by a marque specialist. A set of new, but old stock, European-spec headlight lenses are included in the trunk.

Showing nicely today, the car is very presentable and could benefit from additional cosmetic work. Very original and unrestored, the car has been in dry storage for several years without being driven. As such, mechanical recommissioning is recommended before active use.