1969 Mercedes Benz 280SL Convertible

Description

When Mercedes-Benz launched its new 280SL roadster in 1963, it represented a huge improvement over the previous 190SL. A newly designed, 150 horsepower, six-cylinder engine replaced the 190’s four-cylinder. This engine was gradually increased in size to the most desirable 180 horsepower 2.8-liter engine was developed in 1968. The bulbous bodywork of the 190 was replaced by a new, crisp, angular design, and its unusual, detachable, hardtop roof gave rise to the nickname “Pagoda Top” due to its concaved, center section.

The elegant two-seater was never intended as a pure sports car but 280SL roadsters were often seen on the track and soon became popular rally cars. Mostly, however, the pagoda top SLs became the choice of celebrities and the wealthy. During the mid-century modern period of the 1960s, these roadsters were often seen cruising sunny coastal roads and parked in front of trendy restaurants and grand hotels. They were extremely popular in the United States and the bulk of those produced were made for US export.

This 1969 Mercedes 280SL roadster, VIN 11304410006086, is being offered from the estate of a well- known and respected local collector. He purchased this vehicle is 2008 and based upon the documentation we have, it is believed that it spent most of its life in the Midwest. The mileage indicated on the odometer is approximately 42,000 and, based upon careful inspection it is likely to be the original mileage, however, cannot be guaranteed.

This example is a well-preserved, original car that was given a cosmetic restoration many years ago and today remains in very clean and presentable condition. Upon inspection, they body appears to be very straight and solid. The doors, hood and trunk fit the body with even gaps and margins. The body panels appear to be free of damage and the body lines are crisp and clear. Underneath, the floors appear to be in good condition and the trunk pan appears to be a correct replacement. The car is likely to have been repainted once and the white paint is generally clean and presents well. The paint has the expected amounts of minimal wear present but has a good, overall consistent gloss. The most notable area of paint damage is underneath the grill where there is some paint loss. The black interior is likely original and in good condition. The seats, carpets and door panels are clean and well preserved. The interior woodwork appears to have been recently refinished. The car is equipped with its signature, removable “Pagoda” hardtop as well as a convertible top. The convertible top shows overall wear and the headliner on the hardtop is in need of replacement. The dashboard is original and very clean. All of the instruments and controls are intact and show well. The radio is a later, aftermarket unit, but the original radio is present and included. The glass is clean with the exception of a small chip in the windshield. The trunk area is mostly original and the trunk mat is well worn and should be replaced.

Under the hood, this Mercedes has the desirable 180 horsepower engine which was the most powerful engine offered in the 280SL. It is coupled to a sporty, four-speed transmission that makes this example particularly fun to drive. The engine compartment appears mostly original and is generally clean and presentable. Underneath, the chassis components appear to be original and undamaged. The tires have less than 1,000 miles on them. The car starts easily and runs well.

In recent years, Mercedes 280 SL roadsters have become increasing popular and desirable. This is a very clean and mostly original example that can be driven and enjoyed as-is or easily improved upon with minimal effort.

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• Price: $69,900
• VIN: 11304410006086
• Cylinders: 6
• Title: Clear/MO
• Exterior Color: White

• Carfax:
• Engine: 6 Cylinder
• Transmission: 3 Speed
• Mileage: 41,958
• Interior Color: Black

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