1970 Mercedes-Benz 280SL

1970 Mercedes-Benz 280SL
Chassis no. 113044.10.015795
Engine no. 130983.10.005943
2,778cc SOHC Inline 6-Cylinder Engine
Bosch Mechanical Fuel Injection
160bhp at 5,700rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes

*Very attractive Anthracite Gray over Red leather
*Equipped with the desirable 4-speed manual transmission
*Fitted with air conditioning system and elegant Becker radio
*Offered with many service and maintenance records

THE MERCEDES-BENZ 280SL

In 1967, Mercedes-Benz introduced the third and final iteration of the "Pagoda," the 280SL, and it then became apparent that some cars do not 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.

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 charming model with capable handling and braking accredited to its suspension and discs all around. These quality-built roadsters also have one of the most beautiful bodies produced in the 1960s. Thanks to their robust inline-six and luxurious Mercedes interior, they are wonderful cars to be driven and enjoyed.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

Presented in a handsome Anthracite Gray with red leather color scheme, this 280SL is a perfect all-around car for rallies, local shows, and Sunday cruising. Outstanding features include the desirable 4-speed manual transmission, air conditioning, and a Becker radio. The 280SL joined the prominent collection of the Los Angeles-based consignor in 2008, and from this point, a collection of well-documented service records arise. These invoices display thousands of dollars of cosmetic and mechanical work being conducted, and as a result, this 280SL stands today as a very fine example. From the point of introduction, the W113 has been praised for both its attractive looks and technical advancements and will surely continue to be a desired motorcar by enthusiasts for decades to come.