This unique 280 SL is a custom, one-off example equipped with a Ford 302 cu. in. V-8 engine mated to a five-speed Tremec manual transmission. It has been restored to show quality, with the body having been stripped to bare metal and repainted in factory-correct Silver Grey Metallic (DB 180 G) by Platinum Collision in Marietta, Georgia. The interior features a number of custom touches, with the more modern seats being upholstered in black MB Tex. The carpet was renewed with correct black German loop material, while the wood components on the dashboard were removed and refinished. The top is a German twill replacement and was refitted by BK&D Interiors in 2016. The radio has been upgraded to a modern Kenwood system with four performance speakers. Brightwork was refitted with many new OEM parts from Mercedes-Benz.

The heart and soul of this “hot rod” 280 SL is its Ford 302 V-8 with a mild cam. It is fitted with Edelbrock heads and intake manifold. The front suspension features a crossmember with billet aluminum upper and lower A-arms, together with coilover Aldan gas-charged shock absorbers. Updated sway bars have also been fitted to the front and rear suspension. Braking is handled by custom-fitted Wilwood aluminum calipers at all four corners, accompanied by ventilated rotors and stainless-steel brake lines, with the rear brakes being inboard. Wheels are from a 1992 SL 500 with Toyo Proxes 205/55/R16 tires.

The car has just had a comprehensive service completed by a master mechanic, including an oil and filter change, new spark plugs and wires, as well as a new cap and rotor and steering rack bellows. A four-wheel alignment was also completed.

Boasting the style and panache of the legendary 280 SL, together with the thrills afforded by its American V-8 horsepower, this W113 represents the best of both worlds and will turn heads and surprise at stoplights wherever it goes.