Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Automatic 1969

History and background

The Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Automatic belongs to the W113 series, which was introduced in 1963 as the successor to the 230 SL and later also came as 250 SL and 280 SL. This series was soon nicknamed the "Pagoda," due in part to the shape of the hardtop. The W113 was developed as an open two-seater Gran Turismo with a strong emphasis on constructive solidity, driving comfort and ease of use, thus positioning itself between sports cars and luxury travel cabriolets.

The Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Automatic was the last and most powerful version within the W113 generation. Production of the 280 SL ran from 1967 to 1971, and the type designation refers to the 2.8-liter six-in-line. Within the overall W113 offering, the 280 SL was the most developed variant, with technical refinements that made this version the final version of the model. At the time, the W113 was internationally beloved for its combination of Mercedes-Benz finishes, relatively compact exterior dimensions and a closed body with a removable hardtop.

This Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Automatic was built in 1969, at the stage when the model was already established on the market. The version in silver is in keeping with the classic presentation common to this type. The car was restored between 1993 and 1996; invoice from this restoration is present. Thereafter, the Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Automatic had two owners who drove it very little. The first owner's ownership is documented from 03-1998 to 09-2015 with 6,960 km, after which the second owner owned the vehicle from 09-2015 to the present until a total mileage of 17,515 km.

Characteristics and details

The Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Automatic came with an automatic transmission, which contributes to the W113's character as a comfortable travel car in addition to its sporty positioning. The model is known for its combination of a steel body, a removable hardtop and a softtop, which kept its use in different weather conditions practical. In the case of the W113, the hardtop was designed as a distinctive element that determined the nickname "Pagoda."

This example is equipped with a blue cloth hood and a hardtop in the car's silver color. Furthermore, the car is complete with maintenance history and Kraftfahrzeugbrief no. 38666728. The last major maintenance took place at Sterren Service Centrum Elburg in 2020 at 11,055 km; of which the invoice is present and the maintenance amounted to € 8,000. The present documentation supports the recorded history of this Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Automatic.


Summary

The 1969 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Automatic is a late and sought-after model within the W113 series, with restored history, documented mileage and accompanying documentation. The combination of silver bodywork, blue cloth hood, hardtop and maintenance history makes this Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Automatic easily traceable within its lifetime. To get a good idea of the lot we advise you to come to the viewing day.