Over the years, the W113 has evolved from a sports car to a comfortable Grand Tourer. In addition, US models were usually equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission and air conditioning. Manual transmission models were delivered with the standard 4-speed or the optional ZF 5-speed. The main change was an upgrade of the (2.8 l) M130 engine with 170 hp maximum output and 180 lbft maximum torque, which finally gave the W113 sufficient power. Each engine was now tested on the test bench for two hours before installation, so that its performance specification was finally guaranteed. When the 280SL of the next SL generation with the designation R107 gave way, it had firmly established itself as one of the best cars of the Stuttgart company. With elegant design, excellent performance and incomparable workmanship, the SL series from 1963 to 1971 are solid collector's items.

 

On December 12, 1969, Ms. Rachel Koury and her 67 Mercedes 230 SL visited John H. Butts Motors in Santa Barbara, California, to upgrade to a brand new 1970s model 280 SL with automatic and power steering. The new vehicle was partially funded by the Santa Barbara National Bank. For reasons unknown to us, the car was immediately passed on to Ms. Shirley Greening, who owned it until she could no longer safely operate her little gem. Original bill of sale, window stickers and financial papers are available, as well as the data card, the service book, the operating and parts manual etc. Mrs. Greening had moved to Arizona at the time and had given the Mercedes to her son. He took ownership on paper for legal reasons and sold it to the next owner in 2005.

 

It is essentially a 2-owner vehicle. To this day, the car looks wonderful when it drives down the street. It shows timeless elegance and subtle colors light beige (181) & black (040) & black MB Tex (131) interior. Automatic transmission and power steering make the 280 SL a pleasure and attract more admiration than envy. The glass and the chrome elements are excellent. The interior and the fabric convertible top are in good condition and mechanically solid. Spare wheel, jack, chuck and tool kit are also still available.

 

This Pagoda Top Mercedes was used in California, as well as in South Dakota and Arizona. It was repaired and serviced at any time, except for a few repairs to the Kienzle watch. The odometer at this point shows 7,130 miles. In 2012, just 330 miles ago, the engine was rebuilt by Metric Motors in California and then by MB Motors in Phoenix.

 

It was the owners who ran, drove, were proud and happy before a Pagoda Top Mercedes became a collector or an investment. Whatever you thought was important, it was done to maintain its appearance.

 

The car is solid, with straight lines, good fit and good gaps. A great car with great driveability and a beautiful appearance for almost half the price of a perfect example, the smile per mile will easily outweigh the money spent.