There is little doubt that Paul Bracq's design for the Sixties Pagoda was revolutionary and his ability to mix timeless styling with high performance on three different levels was impressive. The entry level version used the 2.3 litre engine followed by the 2.5 and finally the most desirable and spirited 2.8 litre, six-cylinder engine. The bonnet panel, door skins, boot lid and tonneau cover were composed of aluminium giving the car an overall lightness which contributed to the performance that was very well received by the general public. It quickly became apparent that some cars don't change, they just get better. The 280 featured the same modified W111 chassis with independent front suspension and four-wheel disc brakes. A charming model with capable handling, these roadsters have had one of the most sublime styling bodies, and easily comparable to Jaguar's E-Type and the Alfa Romeo's Spider. The driving experience and build quality are respected, and as a result, still highly collectable today.

This is a lovely, original left hand drive, 1970 Mercedes Benz 280 SL Pagoda with numerous correct details often lost on restored cars. It was imported from California USA in 2023 where we are told it had only two owners and had covered 68,000 miles. This Mercedes, fitted with the automatic gearbox, is UK registered with all duties and taxes paid and is supplied with a V5 registration document. Finished in very striking Signal Red with a beige soft top and parchment interior, it has the rare Kinder seat in the rear, and is offered with a file containing sundry bills, a data card and a lot of history. A handbook, tools, and jack also come with the car. These Pagodas are always a pleasure to drive, particularly in good weather when the roof is down and the smooth six-cylinder engine can really be enjoyed. Consigned by John Tomlin

Lot details
Year: 1970
Make: Mercedes-Benz
Model: 280 SL Pagoda
Registration: TAW 293H
Chassis No: 11304412018153
Odometer: 68,000

* A very good, original example
* Has the rare Kinder rear seat