Mercedes 230 SL “Pagode”

The Mercedes-Benz 230 SL, often referred to by its nickname “Pagoda” due to the unique design of its hardtop, is an iconic classic car that was produced by the German automaker between 1963 and 1967. It was a two-seater convertible/roadster that replaced both the 190 SL and the legendary 300 SL in the Mercedes lineup. The “Pagoda” name comes from the slight concave shape of the hardtop, which was reminiscent of Asian pagoda structures.

Key facts and features of the Mercedes-Benz 230 SL “Pagoda” include:

1. Design: The 230 SL was introduced at the 1963 Geneva Motor Show. Its distinct design, helmed by Frenchman Paul Bracq, was both modern and elegant.
2. Engine: The car was powered by a 2.3-liter inline-six engine that produced around 150 horsepower.
3. Safety: One of the primary design goals of the 230 SL was to improve safety over its predecessors. This led to the car featuring a robust “safety cage” construction and crumple zones — both innovations at the time.
4. Variants: The 230 SL could be had with both a soft top and a hardtop. Some vehicles came with both, giving the owner the flexibility to switch between them.
5. Successors: The 230 SL was succeeded by the 250 SL in 1967 and then the 280 SL in 1968. All three models are collectively referred to as the W113 series.
6. Value: Over the years, the Pagoda’s classic and timeless design, combined with its heritage and the quality of engineering, has made it a sought-after classic. Values have been steadily rising, with well-maintained and restored examples fetching significant sums at classic car auctions and sales.
7. Interior and Comfort: Despite its sports car nature, the 230 SL was well-appointed inside, with a focus on driver comfort. Features like power steering and an automatic transmission were available, making it a more accessible choice for those not purely interested in a sporty drive.
8. Racing: While not primarily a race car, the 230 SL did have some racing pedigree. Most notably, it secured a class win in the grueling 1963 Spa-Sofia-Liège rally.

For those interested in classic cars, the 230 SL “Pagoda” stands as a testament to the blend of elegance, innovation, and engineering that characterized Mercedes-Benz during the 1960s

This W113 was imported from California to Germany in 1996, by a Lawyer.  At that time the Car was painted in red.

During 96/97 the Car underwent a complete restoration. According to the seller the car has perfect gaps and has a very well kept appearance. It comes with the factory hard Top an fresh done TÜV.

An Expertise form 2018 valued the Car at € 102.000,-

See the Expertise here Pagode Wertgutachten