About this Mercedes-Benz SL Series

The Mercedes-Benz W113 is a two-seat luxury Roadster/Coupé which was introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in 1963 and the lead designers were Paul Bracq and Béla Barényi, who created its patented, the slightly concave hardtop, which inspired the "Pagoda" nickname. The styling of the front, with its characteristic upright Bosch 'fishbowl' headlights and simple chrome grille, dominated by the large three-pointed star in the nose panel, paid homage to the earlier 300 SL roadster.

It was produced by Mercedes-Benz from 1963 right through to 1971 replacing both the 300 SL (W198) and the 190 SL (W121) and only 48,912 were built in total and initially launched as the 230 SL in 1963, then the 250 SL for one year only in 1967 and followed by the 280 SL from 1968 to 1971.

All models were equipped with a Bosch mechanical fuel injected six cylinder engine and the bonnet, boot lid, door skins and rear hood cover were all made of aluminium to reduce weight. The comparatively short and wide chassis, combined with an excellent suspension, powerful brakes and radial tyres gave the W113 superb handling for its time and the 230 SL was a very successful Rally car during the 1960's. They were all were configured as a Coupé/Roadster with a Soft-Top and removable hardtop (an option on earlier cars) and a 2+2 known as the 250 SL 'California Coupé' was launched in 1967 before being replaced with the 280SL version. These models had a fold-down rear bench seat instead of the soft-top and came with a Hard Top only.

Mercedes-Benz 280 SL ‘Pagoda’ (1969) – UK RHD | Fully Restored | Exceptional Provenance

Chassis No: 11304422010168
Built: 22nd May 1969 | First Registered: 1st August 1969 - One of only 8,047 cars built in 1969
Original UK Right-Hand Drive | Full Service History from New | Outstanding Condition Throughout

Vehicle Overview

This truly exceptional example of the iconic Mercedes-Benz 280 SL ‘Pagoda’ is presented in its original and highly desirable colour combination of Signal Red with Black leather, complemented by a matching Hard Top and Black Mohair soft top.

Originally supplied new to Mrs Audrey June Arnett of Southsea, this car has had just four owners from new, each of whom meticulously cared for it, with extensive documentation to support its provenance and maintenance history.

Ownership History & Restoration

1st Owner: Mrs Arnett (1969–1982)

2nd Owner: Mr Geoffrey Gladstone (1982–1993)

3rd Owner: Mr Malcolm Underwood (1993–2001)

Commissioned a full, show-standard restoration by marque specialist Tony Montalbano of T M Motors (West Molesey), at a cost of £35,000+.

The car became well known in Mercedes-Benz Owners Club circles, winning several awards.

4th & Current Owner: Mr Aidan McKenna (2001–2025)

Maintained by T M Motors throughout his 24 years of ownership.

Kept in a climate-controlled cocoon when not in use.

Reluctantly selling due to relocation to the USA.

Specification

Engine: 2.8L 6-Cylinder Fuel-Injected

Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic

Steering: Power Assisted

Brakes: Front & Rear Disc Brakes

Wheels: Original 14” Steel Wheels with Mercedes-Benz Full-Face Trims

Interior: Black Leather with Rubber Over-Mats

Roof Options: Body-Coloured Factory Hard Top & Black Mohair Folding Soft Top

Documentation & Extras

Supplied with an extensive history file stored in ring binders, including:

Original Mercedes-Benz Datacard

Full service & restoration history, including detailed invoices from Mercedes-Benz and specialists

All original books, manuals, and documents wallet

Historic MOT records, ownership correspondence, and Concours award documentation

Hard Top Stand & Cover, Original Tool Kit, and additional literature - there are 3 ring-binders full of invoices/paperwork/brochures

Additional Information

Historic Vehicle: Road Tax & MOT Exempt

ULEZ Compliant

Clear HPi Report

Will be supplied with a fresh service, new MOT, and 6-month mechanical warranty on sale.

This 280 SL Pagoda is without doubt one of the finest examples available, boasting originality, full UK provenance, expert restoration, and careful long-term ownership. A rare opportunity to acquire a car that is as exquisite to drive as it is to admire — and one that has proven to be a sound investment as values continue to rise.

Now available for viewing at our Mortlake showroom, South West London.

Note: All descriptions are offered in good faith based on documentation and information provided by previous owners. Buyers are encouraged to inspect the vehicle in person to satisfy themselves of its condition and suitability. This does not affect your statutory rights.