1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SL Pagoda

Description

The Mercedes W113 is considered by many as the last of the truly regal Mercedes convertibles. The 280 SL is the final evolution with the most powerful motor, and 1971 was the final year. So to have the opportunity to own one means a rare chance at joining the upper echelon of classic cars.

Mercedes takes great pride in their SL line. In fact, the W113 "Pagoda" cars were largely hand-built in Germany. This gave each one a level of fit and finish that made them collector's cars from day one. You can see precision in the way the panels fit even as this classic approaches the half-century mark. But that's not only what's making you fall in love with this one. It's bright red paint was part of an upgrade later in life, and so it has a more modern shine. All the brightwork, including the chrome bumpers, bright trim, and polished baroque-style wheels add to the radiance. So you know it's going to look great on a sunny day cruise.

This 280 SL carries its two tops perfectly. The Pagoda-style hardtop roof gives this SL its namesake, and it also gives it a dignified coupe-like appearance. You can remove the hardtop for any time you feel like having the breeze run through the cabin. But if the weather turns wet in the middle of your trip, a folding soft top is neatly hidden under the tonneau cover. In fact, while most imported cars of the era had temporary fabric roofs, this soft top has the precision fitting to be you only roof if you desire. If that sounds like a bit of overkill, it's absolutely true. Mercedes over-engineered their cars to be exceptionally durable, and you can feel that the moment you step inside. The doors close with a solid and confident precision; the VDO gauges have military-grade precision; and the gearstick has an intricate design but a hardy feeling in your hands. The dual leather bucket seats strike the perfect balance between durable and all-day comfortable. Plus, there are some nice upgrades like a Nardi sports steering wheel (the original also comes with the sale,) coco floor mats, and an AM/FM/CD stereo to give you proper driving music.

The key to the idea that Mercedes-Benz cars are bulletproof comes from the reputation built during the 280 SL's era. Mercedes made only a few variations of motors in '71, which means they were able to take the time to get the engineering exactly right. Today that gives cars like this 280 SL a large and reliable parts network that even still includes Mercedes-Benz. A robust and well maintained powerplant also means the fuel-injected 2.8-liter inline-six under the hood is exceptionally smooth and is durable enough that you can drive it like a true performance machine. Yes, you can shift the gated four-speed automatic on your own if you desire, and the motor can take the high rev range with ease. But really this is a grand touring Mercedes. This car is about utilizing the ample trunk space to pack weekend bags and enjoy the backroads to your destination. With power steering, a well-balanced suspension, and four-wheel disc brakes, this is truly classic car motoring at its finest.

This is a hand-built classic that is an instant symbol of distinction. That's why it will be going to its new caretaker soon. Will it be you? Call now!