Creating a car to follow up the 300 SL and 190 SL would be a difficult task for the designers at Mercedes-Benz in the late 1960s. Both automobiles were praised for their stunning design, as well as their incredible driving dynamics, and it was hard for anyone to imagine a better car. When the W113-generation SL was introduced in 1963, it’s crisp, angular Paul Barcq styling, coupled with its unique Pagoda hardtop, quickly gained many admirers and became the next “in” thing.

The ultimate specification of the W113 platform is the 280 SL, and it boasted a 2.8-liter, inline six-cylinder engine that was capable of producing 180 horsepower. Regardless of being the top-shelf model for what was already an expensive car, the 280 SL was the most popular variant, with 23,885 examples being built from 1968 to 1971.

This 1969 280 SL, finished in compelling Dark Olive Green, or Dunkeloliv (DB 291), over a fresh Cognac leather interior with a tan soft-top, was recently cosmetically restored following an earlier mechanical restoration by a Canadian Mercedes-Benz collector who had owned the car for many years. The car’s snug-fitting soft-top was outfitted in correct German fabric. The interior was completely retrimmed from an MB Tex interior to correct-style Cognac full-grain leather throughout, and it was fitted with a new headliner and carpeting. The wood trim was refinished, and even the original clock was restored and is still functioning. At the same time, aging chrome, rubber body moldings, and the wheel covers were replaced. Even though this 280 SL already features a four-speed automatic transmission and rare optional Audiovox cruise control, it has been further upgraded with a keyless remote door and trunk operation, adding to the car’s ease of use. It is also important to note that the car is riding on proper color-matched steel wheels that are wrapped in correct Michelin XZ whitewall tires.

The 280 SL is accompanied by its original owner’s manual, repair manual, and a multi-language list of available options used for marketing purposes in period. It also retains its original tools, jack, spare wheel with a Michelin XZ tire, and its iconic hardtop with correct chrome strips. Interestingly, the car also comes with a custom-designed electric hoist, which allows for effortless storage and the removal of the hardtop.

The W113-generation SLs are treasured by enthusiasts for their driving dynamics and iconic looks, and they are considered by many to be the quintessential Mercedes-Benz convertible. They are practical enough to be used on a daily basis yet are still special in their own right, and they are just as charming today as they were when new. This compelling car offers all this and more.