1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SL Convertible

The Mercedes-Benz W113 SL series launched in 1963 with the ambitious purpose of replacing both the four-cylinder 190SL and high-end 300SL with one model. Designed by Paul Bracq, head of Mercedes design, the W113 inherited some design cues from the big 600 sedan, including the headlights, slab sides, and rear contours, which would influence Mercedes models into the Seventies. The detachable hardtop with the concave center section earned the car its Pagoda nickname. The series started with the 230SL and ended with the 280SL, introduced in 1968 with a 170-horsepower 2.8-liter six. The 280SL brought new comforts, including air conditioning, which were essential to success in America. About half of the 24,000 280SLs built came to the U.S., with most equipped with the four-speed automatic transmission. The seller is offering a 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SL Convertible, the final year for the model. - purchasing the car in New York, following an indicated two-year restoration on a low-mile, rust-free car that concluded in 2019. A docent at the Petersen Automotive Museum, this 280SL has been accepted for temporary presentation at a future Mercedes exhibit there, should the next owner have interest in that. - he must sell now due to his age and deteriorating eyesight. The 2.8-liter SOHC inline-six engine was rated at 170 horsepower (DIN) or 195 horsepower (SAE gross).- that the 280SL's original engine was rebuilt less than 500 miles ago. He indicates subsequently replacing the water pump, motor mounts, and belts. The engine uses Bosch mechanical fuel injection; starting requires turning the key to on to activate the fuel pump and then waiting 15-30 seconds before cranking to the start position. Then, it starts immediately. - no smoke but says it tends to idle fast. There are no known leaks or weeps and no drips on his garage floor. The four-speed fluid-coupling automatic transmission was rebuilt, and it is responsive. - the vehicle's Signal Red paint is in excellent condition, with no dings, scratches, or body blemishes. The chrome parts were replated, and the car has been stored under a cover in a garage since 2019. Further, he reports only dusting the car as needed but that he has not washed it. The car has not been driven in rain. The wheels and tires are cleaned routinely. The new German soft top and the repainted original hardtop are both reported in excellent condition. The seller affirms there are no leaks with either top. All glass is in good condition with no scratches or cracks noted. The manually operated windows function well. All seals were replaced to factory specifications at the time of refurbishment, and there are no cracks in the rubber. The European headlights were on the car before the restoration, . All lights and signals work as designed. - - the car's carpet is in excellent condition with no holes or tears. The interior trim is intact,, just pointing out that the heater fan knob which is a bit worn on one corner. The headliner and all interior aspects were included in the refurbishment and are in excellent condition with no water marks. The correct Cognac leather seat material is in excellent condition, including head rests. The heat works, and all gauges function well. The gas gauge tends to float, but the low-fuel warning light is functional. The clock is also in working order. The original Becker Europa AM/FM radio is affirmed to work, but there are no rear speakers. - The W113-series SL models used four-wheel independent suspension with a swing-axle setup in the rear. The seller affirms that the suspension service was included in the 2019 refurbishment and that the bushings and shocks are in good shape. The wheel covers appear to be in very good condition, with no blemishes. The 185/75R14 Maxxis HA-1 radial tires have 2016 DOT date codes. The power-assisted steering has good alignment with no play in the wheel and no leaks, the seller states. - the fluid was replaced one year ago. The four-wheel power-assisted disc brakes were included in the refurbishment and work as designed. Full documentation of the refurbishment, including photos of every aspect of the work, along with receipts for all work done afterward, are available for review. Following an extensive restoration in 2019, this 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SL is presented with no needs. A true ageless beauty, this W113 appears ready for showing and driving.