The Mercedes Benz SL, Sport Light, was first launched in 1954 and caused a sensation with its Gullwing doors and motorsport derived technology. The second generation Mercedes Benz SL models, the W113 series, were produced by Mercedes Benz from 1963 until 1971 in three different engine variations, the 230SL, 250SL and 280SL.

The “Pagoda” nickname was taken from the concave appearance of the hardtop that was designed by Mercedes Benz’s Head of Styling, Friedrich Geiger, and lead designers Paul Bracq and Béla Barényi. The W113 SL, was the first Mercedes Benz with radial tyres and the first sports car to feature a “safety body”. Barényi performed extensive research and development on safety and design for the SL’s body and added crumple zones which had front and rear sections designed to absorb impact.

The 230SL Pagoda was unveiled at the 1963 Geneva Motor Show with production commencing in June 1963. It was fitted with a 2.3 litre inline six engine with multi-point fuel injection which produced 148 BHP through either a 4-speed automatic, 4-speed manual or a 5-speed ZF manual transmission to the rear wheels.

The W113 SL Pagoda has earned a reputation over the years as one of the world's most beautiful cars, receiving recommendations from publications such as The Daily Telegraph for being on the list of “The 100 Most Beautiful Cars Of All Time” and GQ Magazine for being “The Ten Cars that made Mercedes Benz”.

This Mercedes Benz W113 SL Pagoda is a 230sl example that at some point had its engine upgraded to a 2.5l from the 250sl. It has been in single ownership for the past 9 years and was purchased in Johannesburg .

It recently had the following work done prior to sale, which has enhanced this examples ease of use and driving enjoyment.

• Power steering was overhauled, pipes replaced and bled
• The Differential mounting/pivot bush was replaced
• The gear shift linkages were replaced
• The throttle linkages were refurbished and adjusted
• Fuel control: Realign and fit new ball ends
• A new distributor was fitted
• Vacuum advance system repaired
• Grease service for front suspension
• Supply and fit 409 grade stainless steel rear exhaust box
• Replace all brake hoses and bleed system

This example is a good quality W113 series SL (not matching numbers) which is far more affordable than examples that have retained all their original parts and in particular engine. This presents an opportunity for driving enthusiasts and those less concerned with 100% originality who are rather inspired by the beautiful classic design and well engineered Mercedes Benz open top classic cars.

Contact Gareth or Jeremy for more details: Tel: (021) 462 3558 or send us your enquiry below: