1969 Mercedes-Benz 280SL

Produced at the Stuttgart-based Mercedes-Benz factory during in 1969, this lovely 280SL features an 3 speed automatic transmission, 2.8 litre in-line 6 cylinder engine, disc brakes, Blaupunkt radio and radar, side trim proper, Mercedes caps etc. This is a two top vehicle, and it comes form a long family ownership since 1984 with receipts dating back then. Vehicle runs and drives good, Looks beautiful please contact us for any further information.

THE MERCEDES-BENZ 280SL History

In the Spring of 1963, Mercedes-Benz debuted an all-new roadster to replace the 190SL and 300SL- The 230SL. The 230SL 'Pagoda' was a stunning Paul Bracq designed two-seat Cabriolet that followed Mercedes' new design language, featuring crisp lines and upright headlights. The 230SL was fitted with a prominent three-pointed star in its grill as a reference to the already iconic 300SL. To save on weight, the hood, door skins, trunk lid, and tonneau cover are all composed of aluminum. The nickname 'Pagoda' was quickly adopted thanks to the slightly concave roof on the optional removable hardtop that resembled a pagoda roof. Although controversial at its introduction, these SLs are now considered a masterpiece of design.

In 1967, Mercedes-Benz introduced the third and final iteration of the 'Pagoda', the 280SL. The 280 featured the same modified W111 chassis with a rear swing axle and independent front suspension and four-wheel disc brakes. Power came from a 2.8-liter version of Mercedes' robust SOHC inline-six and used Bosch fuel injection- a combination producing 160 horsepower in US-market variants, which had to be modified slightly to comply with emissions standards. To compensate, the rear-end ratios were changed in these US-market cars to offer greater low-end acceleration.

While the 280SL did not offer the performance of the 300SL, it is a very charming model with capable handling and braking thanks to its suspension and all-wheel disc brakes. These open-top Cabriolets also have one of the most beautiful bodies produced in the 1960s, and thanks to their robust inline-six and luxurious Mercedes-Benz interior, are wonderful cars to drive and enjoy.