The 280SL replaced the legendary 300SL and the 190SL. In 1968, its second year of production, the 280 variant of the W113 Chassis was gaining a lot of interest in the North American market. Mercedes-Benz began building many U.S. specification cars complete with popular accessories to supply this demand. They are considered the true start of the high volume SL as we know it today, and more importantly the last of the hand-built Mercedes-Benz. The 280SL line was closed out in 1971 after almost 24,000 examples were built.

Then engine is a 2.8-liter, overhead camshaft, inline six-cylinder engine with Bosch fuel-injection. This combination gave the sporty car an estimated 180 horsepower. A four-speed manual and four-speed automatic transmission were available; this particular example has the automatic transmission option. The chassis is furnished with power four-wheel disc brakes and independent suspension.

The cabin features plush, supportive black seats matched with gray carpet. This car is equipped with air conditioning and a correct Becker Europa AM/FM radio. The exterior is finished with silver paint, 300SL-style chrome wheel covers with the star emblem and thin whitewall tires. The Mercedes is also complete with a black “Pagoda” hardtop and a black cloth convertible top.

The older restoration on this Pagoda is finished in a very desirable color combination. Plus a 280SL is always in style, and it is an essential part of any collection of European sports cars.