Lot details
Registration No: WWT455J
Chassis No: 11304412022414
Mot Expiry: July 2011

Mercedes have been producing an SL (Sport Leicht) model or range of models since 1954 when the landmark 300SL was unveiled. The similarly styled, but mechanically unrelated, 190 followed in 1955, completing the first generation of cars. Their successor was the W113 series SL, which proved to be more comfortable than the former and faster than the latter (a point emphasised by Eugen Bohringer's 1963 Liege-Sofia-Liege rally victory). The last of the W113 line, the 280SL, was launched in 1968. Blessed with the same effortlessly elegant Paul Bracq styling as its earlier siblings, it was powered by a new seven bearing crankshaft, 2778cc straight-six engine that developed some 170 bhp and 180 lb ft of torque. Equipped with all round independent suspension and ATE disc brakes, its 'square' track (some eight inches wider than the contemporary Jaguar E-type) gave notably sure-footed handling. Able to blur the divide between city streets and open roads with ease, the majority of 280SLs were specified with four-speed automatic gearboxes and power assisted steering. The model was available in Californian Coupe, Convertible or Coupe Convertible guises, the last of which came with both a soft-top and the famous 'Pagoda' hardtop roof (so called because of its gently scalloped centre section).

The 280SL being sold is a left-hand drive 1971 North American specification example. It is finished in black with tan trim and equipped with automatic transmission, power assisted steering, air conditioning and a factory hard top. Some 10 years ago, while belonging to the manager of the Mercedes dealer in Long Island, the Mercedes was apparently treated to a new bonnet, wings and boot lid prior to being repainted. It further received a new hood and frame, while the engine, gearbox and elements of the brake system were overhauled. The vendor, a professional classic car restorer, has continued the car's rejuvenation since purchasing it five years ago. In his care it has reportedly benefited from a bare-metal respray and power steering overhaul, plus the fitting of new brake discs, brake pads and dampers. We understand it has also enjoyed regular maintenance of the paintwork and general servicing. He describes the car as having "excellent" bodywork, a "superb" paint finish, "excellent" panel gap / shut lines and to be mechanically "spot on", with tyres, brakes, exhaust etc to be "all good". Evidently the SL recently completed a 2,000 mile round trip of Northern France without a hitch. It is taxed until the end of April, MOT'd into July 2011 and comes with a 'Pagoda' hardtop roof.