- Fully Documented Nut & Bolt Restoration in Germany 2017 - Coupe/Roadster Example Complete with Removable Hardtop Roof - Car Cover, Spare Wheel, Roof Cover, Tool Kit & 2 Sets of Sun Visors - Left Hand Drive Example - US Country of Origin Codenamed W113, the encore to the Mercedes-Benz 190SL and 300SL was first introduced at the 1963 Frankfurt Auto Show as the 230SL. As neither the hairy-chested beast exemplified by the 300SL or the boulevard tourer of the 190SL, the new 230SL placed more of an emphasis on safety and comfort. The four-cylinder power of the 190 was gone; all models were fitted with a Bosch, fuel-injected, 2,281-cubic centimetre six-cylinder producing 150 horsepower. It had the added distinction of the first Mercedes-Benz automobile to be fitted with an alternator as standard equipment. Off-the-shelf components included independent front and rear suspension and servo-assisted front disc and rear drum brakes, which helped to keep development and production costs within reason. Perhaps most appealing about the car was its unique styling. Clearly linked to earlier Stuttgart designs, it featured the broad front grille of the 300SL, albeit in a squared-up shape. As with its predecessors, it was available as a roadster, roadster/coupe, or pure coupe. Most distinctive was its roofline, the so called "pagoda roof", designed by Paul Bracq and Bela Barenyi. The upright roofline contained lots of glass area, with raised sides and a lower centre panel instead of curving conventionally upwards toward the middle, à la a Japanese pagoda. Production of 230SLs continued until the uprated 250SL made its debut at the 1967 Geneva Motor Show. Though horsepower ratings remained the same, the new 2,496-cubic centimetre engine provided more torque for better acceleration. Wheel rims increased from 5.5 to 6 inches, and four-wheel disc brakes became standard. The coupe version was dropped. As the final version, the 280SL made its public appearance early in 1968. Most notable was the increased engine displacement to 2,778 cubic centimetres, this time with a bump in both torque and horsepower. Interiors were upgraded, along with a myriad of detail refinements. The final 280SL came off the assembly line in March 1971. A total of 23,885 were produced during the model run, making it the most popular of all the roadsters built to date. The example we're offering today sits in concours winning condition; with absolute attention paid to every nut, bolt, stitch and weld. Finished in a deep cream, complimented by a rich red interior this car is a true head turner. As the values of the 280SL continue to soar, why not buy the best example on the planet? Sold - "As is, where is, subject to road test and report." NB. Mileage shown is post restoration.