1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SL Pagoda Roadster

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Description

This 1971 280SL Pagoda Roadster comes delivered in a White exterior that is complemented by a Chocolate Brown interior and stands as a great original example. It is a 2-owner from new California car that includes 2 tops - soft and hard - and features a number of desirable options including dealer-installed Air Conditioning, a period-correct Becker Europa AM/FM radio, and a single exterior mirror. The 280SL also features a recently refreshed interior, while retaining numerous original features such as inner fender spot welds, notches behind the headlight surrounds, and its authentic firewall pad. The Mercedes includes the owner's manual, along with a copy of the Mercedes data card.

Recent work performed by our team included:

• A complete repaint, wet sanding & buffing of the exterior and restored hard top.
• Fully restored the Hard Top with new wood, re-chromed hardware, and painted to match the car.
• Installed a new Headliner.
• Properly rebuilt the head and installed new gaskets.
• Replaced the sub-frame mounts.
• Replaced the brake booster.
• Rebuilt the rear calipers.
• Replaced rear soft brake line.
• Installed a new voltage regulator.
• Flushed and Bled the Brake system.
• Detailed the undercarriage.
• Installed a new exhaust system (with hangers)

History

In 1963, Mercedes-Benz introduced a new roadster, the 230SL, as a replacement for both the 190SL and the exotic 300SL. Designed by Paul Bracq, this two-seat convertible showcased crisp sophistication and utilized existing passenger car components. Dubbed the 'Pagoda' due to its unique concave removable hardtop resembling a Japanese pagoda, it initially sparked controversy but has since earned recognition as a design masterpiece. The final evolution of the 'Pagoda' emerged in 1967 with the 280SL, affirming the notion that some cars don't change; they simply improve. Road & Track, in their 1968 test of the 280SL, stated, "The Mercedes-Benz 280SL, the latest version of a line that began as the 230SL in 1963, is the same as ever, just better." The esteemed American motoring magazine enthused, "For those who value engineering, finesse, and high-quality construction, it stands alone." Today, these roadsters are celebrated for their comfort, handling, and exceptional quality, embodying cars designed for driving pleasure.