1969 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL

Nicknamed “Pagoda” in reference to its concave removable hardtop, the Mercedes-Benz 280 SL was the final iteration of the W113 platform. Introduced in December 1967, the 280 SL featured Paul Bracq’s iconic lines while being mechanically upgraded. A 2.8-liter M130 inline six increased power to 170 bhp and added the edge the W113 had always deserved.

This 1969 280 SL was sold new through Stahl Motor Company in Monterey, California. Finished in Ivory (DB 670), with matching hardtop, dark brown soft top, and a Cognac MB-Tex interior, this example was equipped with an uncommon four-speed manual gearbox, which instilled a sportier driving experience, as well as power steering, tinted glass, and garnish roof bars. The originality of this 280 SL’s numbers-matching engine is supported by its Mercedes-Benz Data Card.

Accompanied by its books, tools, jack, and window sticker, this Pagoda registers just over 49,000 miles, believed from new, and is stated to be in largely unrestored condition with the exception of its soft top and repaint in its original Ivory color. Recent maintenance work by Star Motors of Endicott, New York, included replacing the fuel hoses, shock absorbers, and exhaust system, with receipts on file.

Long known for their performance, handling, comfort, style, and reliability, examples of the 280 SL have been desirable through the decades, and now is the time to discover the joy of owning this impressively original Pagoda.