The Mercedes-Benz W113 roadsters, designed by Paul Bracq, were produced from 1963 through to 1971. They were known as the 'pagoda roof' SL and replaced the W198 SL in 1963 which was then, in turn, replaced by the R107 SL in 1971. All models boast an inline six-cylinder engine with multi-port fuel injection using a mechanical pump system adapted from the diesel motors. Most of these early SL's were sold with both the removable hardtop and a soft top in the so-called 'Coupe/Roadster' configuration. By 1955, Mercedes-Benz Chief Engineer, Prof. Fritz Nallinger and his team, held no illusions regarding the 190 SL's lack of performance and, in 1960, he eventually proposed to develop a completely new 220 SL design based on technology from the W112. This led to the W113 platform with an improved fuel-injected 2.3 litre M127, inline-six engine and the distinctive 'pagoda' hardtop roof called the 230 SL. It made a remarkable debut at the prestigious Geneva Motor Show in March 1963, where Nallinger introduced it as follows: 'It was our aim to create a very safe and fast sports car with high performance, which despite its sports characteristics, provides a very high degree of travelling comfort.' The 250 SL was basically a one-year model, introduced at the 1967 Geneva Motor Show.
This rare California model of this popular and iconic Mercedes-Benz Pagoda range is presented as an unfinished project. The engine had run but then the car was stripped for restoration and is now being sold 'as seen' and according to the HPI, it states that the colour is Silver but this cannot be verified. As far as we have been made aware, the following items are missing - radiator, front bumper, door pads and front windscreen but it does come with its factory hardtop. There maybe some other parts missing but ostensibly we are informed that the rest is present. A great project for someone who can stamp their own identity on to it and create once again, a beautiful California Pagoda. Consigned by James Good.
Lot details Year: 1967 Make: Ford Model: 250 SL Pagoda 'California' Registration: MKH 726E Chassis No: 11304310002266 Odometer: tba