1971 Mercedes-Benz 280-Class

The Mercedes-Benz W113 chassis, made from 1963 to 1971 (230SL/250SL/280SL), is known as the "Pagoda" because of its unique concave removable hardtop. The "SL" name, meaning "Sport Light," comes from the famous 1950s 300SL race cars. The W113 set the design for future SL models with a focus on safety and luxury. Most brand/model enthusiast sees the W113 280SL as a luxurious, comfortable open-top GT, perfect for grand touring—what most Mercedes buyers wanted.
The Mercedes-Benz chassis code W113 model line started in 1963 and ended in 1971 (230SL/250SL/280SL). Commonly known for the model’s nickname "Pagoda", because of its signature designed concave-shaped, removable hardtop. The name SL ("Sport Light") was born with the legendary race performance 300SL Gullwing and Roadster of the 1950s. The W113 chassis set the template for all future generations of SL. Although less of a high-performance race car, it still has lightweight features in its construction. Most car enthusiasts would say the W112 is more of a luxurious “sporty” open-top GT with excellent comfort and capable grand touring, which is what most buyers of Mercedes cars want.
The 280SL blends luxury with a driver-focused feel, offering a smooth ride, light power steering, and sharp brakes. It’s known for its classic styling and enjoyable driving. The 2.8-liter fuel-injected inline-6 engine with about 168-170 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque (factory period spec). Equipped with the optional four-speed manual transmission. The suspension prioritizes comfort, so there’s some body roll. Steering is easy thanks to hydraulic assistance. The four-wheel disc brakes for good stopping power. For safety, the 280SL includes a strong passenger cabin, crumple zones, and a steering column designed to move away from the driver in a collision.
The 280SL, combines luxury with a driver-focused experience, featuring a supple ride, light hydraulic steering, and responsive brakes. While a great car to drive, it is also valued for its timeless styling. Powered by a 2.8-liter, fuel-injected inline-6 engine that produces around 168-170 horsepower and approximately 180 lb-ft of torque (factory specs). This car is equipped with the optional four-speed manual gearbox. The suspension was designed for comfort, a relaxing ride, which translates to having some body roll. Steering is light and hydraulically assisted, making the car easy to maneuver. The SL was designed with four-wheel disc brakes that are responsive. The 280SL was ahead of its time in terms of safety, with features like a rigid passenger compartment, crumple zones, and a steering column designed to move away from the driver in a collision.
This 1971 280SL is one of just 830 made in the final year of the W113 series. It drives well and has classic style. Perfect for daily use, weekend drives, or just for a fun run. Recently serviced with new tires, ignition tune-up, fuel filter, brake fluid, and oil change.
Exterior:
The White paint with Tobacco brown top is classic and striking. The paint is in overall good condition. Not a show car finish, yet a very attractive finish for the car's age. Some light dings and marks. The chrome trim is in good to fair condition with some light aging. The hard top is also in good yet aged condition.
Interior:
Beautiful dark Brown interior with Mercedes very durable Tex Leather (leatherette). The cabin is a blend of luxury and classic design, with high-quality materials. The iconic dashboard features gorgeous, easy-to-read gauges. It does have a modern radio unit. The original radio is no longer available.
Mechanicals:
Standard unrestored 2.8L engine. Recently received some extra attention over it’s regular annual servicing. Shifter bushings, ignition system (distributor cap, rotor, wires, spark plugs, and coil), new fuel filter with MFI tuning. New tires.
History
The car comes with a well-documented history with service receipts.