1970 MERCEDES-BENZ 280 SL PAGODA

Representing a golden era of Mercedes-Benz design and engineering, this 1970 280 SL ‘Pagoda’ is a superb restored example of the classic roadster, which counts radio and TV presenter Chris Evans among its prior keepers. Under the bonnet is the 2.8-litre ‘M130’ straight-six engine, which produces 168bhp and drives the rear wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission. The odometer indicates 7,801 miles; however, this is not accurate as the gauge was replaced in August 2019.

This right-hand drive 280 SL was first registered in March 1970 and was delivered to its first owner in Sheffield, where it remained until 1998. The car is believed to have left the factory finished in red, but was fully restored in 2008 by Pagoda specialist Silchester Cars at a cost of £61,000, and colour changed at the same time, shortly before being sold to its next owner.

In 2011, the car was purchased by Mercedes-Benz and placed on display at Mercedes-Benz World in Surrey, and it was purchased in 2014 by TV and radio presenter Chris Evans, who owned the car for one year and drove it in a Breakfast Show fundraiser for Children in Need. The car was then sold in 2015, before changing hands once more in 2018, when it was acquired by the seller.

Owing to its extensive restoration in 2008, this 280 SL’s refined bodywork is in wonderful, undamaged condition, with straight panels and flush shut lines. Its silver paintwork has a beautiful finish around the whole car, with only two faint bubbles under the surface. The car’s brightwork is also in excellent order, with the chromed bumpers, trim strips and front grille all having been polished to a mirror shine. Furthermore, the blue fabric convertible hood fits well over the frame beneath and is free of any rips or tears, and the ‘Pagoda’ hard top roof is finished in dark metallic grey and presents very well. The car rides on the correct set of 14-inch steel wheels with colour-matched hub caps, which are in great shape.

Stepping inside, the cabin has been fully retrimmed in handsome blue leather, which covers the seats, the door cards and the upper and lower sections of the dashboard. In line with the car’s sparing use since its restoration, the seats feature only the slightest creases to their surfaces, and the rest of the interior upholstery is pristine. Ahead, the glossy black steering wheel is similarly smart, and the wooden ‘dash bows’, speaker grille and centre storage tray add an extra touch of elegance to the already stylish interior.

Although it is almost entirely unmodified, the cabin does feature one modern concession in the form of its Becker Mexico stereo, which combines classic looks with present-day functionality. There is a six-disc CD changer which is located in the boot, though it does not appear to work. All of the car’s buttons, switches and electrical items work as they should, and there are no warning lights displayed on the dashboard.

This gorgeous classic’s most recent routine maintenance was carried out in 2018 by Mercedes-Benz of Poole. In addition to an oil change, various rubber seals were replaced, and play in the suspension system was rectified.

As stated above, this car’s exquisite condition is thanks largely to its complete restoration, which was carried out in 2008 by Mercedes SL ‘Pagoda’ specialist Silchester Garage. Among other items, this included a complete engine rebuild and replacement of the brakes and suspension components. Furthermore, the body and subframe were completely stripped and repainted, while the interior was fully re-trimmed. While this is only a brief overview, the full, six-page invoice can be viewed in the gallery below.

Given its age, this 280 SL is exempt from MOT testing, however its last test was conducted on 29 June 2018 at an indicated 4,916 miles. This resulted in a clean pass, after issues with the brakes, suspension and offside rear wheel bearing were rectified. All four wheels are fitted with Toyo TEO Plus with tyres, which date to 2014 and are described by the vendor as being in very good condition, with ample usable tread remaining.

The car will be accompanied by a raft of documents, including its correct owner’s manuals, the instructions for its Becker stereo and invoices for its past restoration and servicing.

Fully restored to an incredibly high standard and previously displayed at Mercedes-Benz World at Brooklands as a testament to that quality, this right-hand drive 1970 280 SL ‘Pagoda’ is a marvellous example of the highly desirable open-top tourer. Presented in superb condition, it will take pride of place in any collection, and is sure to turn heads on every journey.

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