This 1969 Mercedes-Benz 280SL roadster is described as a highly-original car that remained in the care of one owner 50 years. It’s also equipped with the desirable and rare 4-speed manual (though not as valuable as the extremely limited 5-speed cars) and is said to retain its original interior. Find it here on eBay with bidding over $52,000 and the reserve unmet.
The W113 has long been a rising star among collectible Mercedes models, certainly helped by the fact that it remains far more attainable than the multi-million dollar valuations cast upon the 300SL gullwing and roaster models. The 280SL is obviously a much different car, but if a vintage Mercedes roadster that won’t ever lose value is on your list, this is a great car to buy.
The fact that this is an original interior is amazing, as the leather appears to be in mint condition, and the same can be said of the carpets and door panels. Now, Mercedes interiors are typically among the hardest-wearing in the business, so it doesn’t take a genius to keep a vintage cockpit in decent shape – but this does underscore the level of care the longtime owner lavished on it.
The inline-six wasn’t overly powerful, but it was nicely matched for the chassis. The W113 made use of aluminum body panels and excellent suspension tuning, making the Pagoda an enjoyable driver. Both tops are included with this specimen, which will likely be even more engaging with the manual gearbox. A pricey car to own, for sure, but worth it if one of the best.
Auction listing says upholstery is MB-Tex, not leather. After 50 years, genuine leather would have a discernible wear pattern, at the very least. MB-Tex wears forever given reasonable care.
Nice write up Jeff. I currently own a 67 230SL. They are timeless with their design. Mine is an A/C 4 speed also. Should be able to make money on it, when the time comes to sell as they are appreciating nicely. Hence, my license plate: APRECI8.
An extremely beautiful car. Back then, Mercedes knew how to build timeless automobiles that were instantly recognizable as an automobile apart from all others. Visually, a work of art.
Not too many of these with a third pedal. With the condition and colors it will be interesting to see the sale price. The 2 that I’ve driven with a 4 speed went for 21k then 8 years later one for 29k, and now 6 years after that the car is 70k+. For me the 180 4 or 5 speed is the best modern Benz .
I mean 280 SL…..for me. I think the least of the 180.
The very definition of a fine German touring automobile. Medium gray, black MB Tex interior, manual gearbox, both tops, original wheelcoverings. Unmessed with. If I win the lottery this week this is where I’d put my $50k. .
This one should command closer to $75K+.
These have certainly appreciated well over the last ten years, but this has also motivated many previous owners to put theirs up for sale. Hagerty says the market is starting to soften with some price decline from the peak for these and 190’s as well.
To me they are cute but not 75 large cute. I can think of a lot of other cars I would prefer at that price point.
Beautiful car , but for the same amount of money a person could buy a rotted out pos 356.
Ended:Oct 03, 2019 , 9:01PM
Current bid:US $74,100.00
Reserve not met
[ 49 bids ]