1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SL 

Late-Production Example

1 of Just 830 Produced for 1971

Ultimate Mercedes-Benz ‘W113’ Evolution

Recently Rebuilt 4-Speed Automatic Gearbox

High-Quality Refinish in Red Over Tan MB-Tex Interior

Power 4-Wheel Disc Brakes, Power Steering, Becker ‘Europa’ Radio

Exceptional Mechanical Condition Including Suspension

Good Black Convertible Top & Body-Color “Pagoda” Hardtop

Ready to Enjoy Anywhere!

Launched at Geneva in 1963, the ‘W 113’ series Mercedes-Benz 230SL replaced the 300SL and 190SL at one stroke and initiated a new single-platform sports car policy for its maker. Fast-rising designer Paul Bracq styled the new SL, including its distinctive “Pagoda” style removable hardtop and Bela Barényi engineered the vehicle’s many advanced built-in safety features. Development was overseen by legendary Mercedes-Benz personnel, including Technical Director Fritz Nallinger, Chief Engineer Rudolf Uhlenhaut, and Head of Styling Friedrich Geiger. Models progressed through the 1967-only 2.5-liter 250SL, which ushered in 4-wheel disc brakes, to the ultimate 2.8-liter 280SL produced from November 1967 to February 1971.

While improvements applied to the 280SL were mainly detail-oriented, including the uprated 180-horsepower engine, they were numerous, and combined to make an already great road car even better than before. The enhanced power output, low-end torque, and all-around flexibility of the 280SL captivated road testers in period and it continues to enchant collectors and marque enthusiasts everywhere today. Just 830 examples of the 280SL were produced for the final 1971 model year, including this high-quality example we are thrilled to offer.

Produced during November 1970, this Mercedes-Benz 280SL from the final 1971 model year is captivating and collector-grade throughout. Sporting a solid body retaining the factory-original front-fender spot welds, this 280SL continues to benefit handsomely from a painstaking refinish from Dark Blue to eye-catching Red, with obvious care taken throughout the process, including the close attention paid to the door openings and dashboard – hallmarks of quality work. The paint finish remains virtually blemish-free, with the exception of an understandablysmall flaw where the removable hardtop rests just aft of the driver’s side door opening. Trimmed in factory-correct Tan MB-Tex upholstery with matching carpeting, the interior is very well preserved and includes a floor console, clock, Pepita floor mats, and a desirable Becker ‘Europa’ AM/FM/short-wave radio. Unlike many other 280SLs on the market, the heater and defroster controls of this example are noted to move freely and operate properly.

The engine bay and 180-horsepower 6-cylinder engine are tidy and professionally detailed; the 4-speed automatic gearbox has been freshly rebuilt, resulting in exceptional shift action and response. The underbody and chassis are clean and very well presented, consistent with the rest of the vehicle. Newly fitted shock absorbers and suspension bushings yield excellent driving dynamics in concert with power-assisted steering and 4-wheel power disc brakes.

Both a good older Black soft top and a body-color “Pagoda” removable hardtop are included in the sale of this very fine 280SL, which also features a properly finished trunk compartment, equipped with a full-size mounted spare wheel/tire, which is covered and correctly secured. In addition to its great cosmetic and mechanical condition, this 280SL is certainly one of the best-driving cars of its kind in our opinion, one informed by our ownership of some 200 examples of these exceptional GT cars through the years. While this rare 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SL could certainly be further elevated with ease for the concours lawn, it is an exceptionally high-quality and attractive example as offered and will certainly provide a wonderful driving experience and a fine presence anywhere you care to take it!