Mercedes-Benz 230SL Pagode 1964

History and background

The Mercedes-Benz 230SL Pagoda was introduced in 1963 as the successor to the 190SL and marked the opening of the W113 series. The model was designed under the direction of Paul Bracq and was known for its characteristic hardtop with concave roofline, from which the nickname Pagoda was soon derived. The 230SL was intended to be a sporty gran turismo with a significantly higher degree of user comfort and technology than its predecessor, thus tying in with Mercedes-Benz's position in the upper segment at that time.

The Mercedes-Benz 230SL Pagoda combined a relatively compact body with Mercedes-Benz's then modern safety concepts. Among other features, the W113 series received a reinforced passenger cell and a carefully crafted chassis that set the car apart from many of its contemporaries. The 230SL was produced in 1964 within the first years of the model series, before the 250SL and 280SL appeared later. A total of just over 48,000 examples of the W113 family were built, with the 230SL being the first and historically defining model within this line.

Within the Mercedes-Benz market position, the 230SL Pagoda occupied a special place between comfort and sportiness. The model came as a roadster with detachable hardtop and cloth hood, thus targeting an international audience that valued refinement and recognizable design. That combination earned the Mercedes-Benz 230SL Pagoda a permanent place among the classics of the 1960s.

Characteristics and Details


This Mercedes-Benz 230SL Pagoda is in clean, largely original condition. The paint and chrome work are in good condition. The leather interior is original, but shows some imperfections. The car is equipped with the original Becker Europa TR radio and comes with the original hardtop.

The 230SL was powered by a six-cylinder in-line with mechanical fuel injection, a technique that was characteristic of Mercedes-Benz in that period and contributed to the refined character of the model. The W113 was recognizable not only by the shape of its hardtop, but also by the combination of a relatively austere design and technically careful workmanship. In 1964, the Mercedes-Benz 230SL Pagoda was a model that marked the transition to a more mature interpretation of the sporty Mercedes-Benz roadster.

For collectors, it is precisely the consistency between original parts and the specific design that is important. The original Becker Europa TR radio and the included hardtop fit within that context and make the Mercedes-Benz 230SL Pagoda recognizable as a copy while retaining several factory-specific elements.

Summary


The 1964 Mercedes-Benz 230SL Pagoda is an early version of a model that has a firm place in Mercedes-Benz history. With its largely original condition, original leather interior, original Becker Europa TR radio and original hardtop, this lot offers a recognizable image of the W113 series. To get a good idea of the lot we recommend you come to the viewing day.