The encore to the Mercedes-Benz 190SL and 300SL, codenamed W113, was first introduced at the 1963 Frankfurt Auto Show as the 230SL. This new car was neither the race-bred machine exemplified by the 300SL nor the boulevard cruiser of the 190SL, as it placed more of an emphasis on safety and comfort. The four-cylinder power of the 190 was gone, as all models were fitted with a Bosch fuel-injected six-cylinder that could produce 150 horsepower.

Perhaps most appealing aspect of the car was its unique styling, which was clearly linked to earlier Stuttgart designs, but remained distinctively new. Most distinctive was its roofline; the so-called “pagoda” roof, which had been designed by Paul Bracq and Bela Barenyi. The upright roofline contained lots of glass area, with raised sides and a lower center panel, à la a Japanese pagoda.

The final version, the 280SL, made its public appearance early in 1968. Most notable was the increased engine displacement to 2,778 cubic centimeters, which bumped up torque and horsepower to 180. The interiors were upgraded, along with a myriad of detail refinements.

This 280SL left the Mercedes-Benz factory on July 18, 1969 and was delivered to its first owner in the Ruhr region of Germany shortly after. Signal Red was its original color from the factory but it has since been refinished in black with a matching hardtop. Today, the car presents very well with its black on black color combination, European specification headlights and period Becker radio.

Few 280SLs are as attractive as this example and this would be the ideal SL to drive and enjoy. The seats have been recovered and the four-speed automatic transmission is perfect for grand touring or use on a vintage rally.