1965 Mercedes-Benz 230 SL

This 230SL Pagoda example is powered by a 2.3-litre (2,308 cc) M127.II inline-six engine producing approximately 150 PS (110 kW / 148 hp) and 196 Nm (145 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is derived from Mercedes-Benz’s robust M180 inline-six architecture, which was advanced technology for its era. Power is delivered through a 4-speed manual transmission. Its signature concave hardtop roofline earned it the “Pagoda” nickname. To reduce weight and improve balance, key body panels including the bonnet, boot lid, door skins, were constructed from aluminium.

Confirmed by the original factory Datenkarte, this specific example with chassis number 113-04210-011629 was originally built in July 1965 and subsequently delivered to the United States. In March 2022, following repatriation back to Germany, it underwent a complete nut and bolt 30-month restoration, documented in a detailed 69-page appraisal. There are potentially plenty of examples available, but this one is right up there, both in terms of usability and stunning factory original colour combination.

The car is finished in factory color code 670/408 (Uni), paired with a Hellelfenbein (light ivory) and Havana brown interior. It features a brown soft top (737) and includes the factory removable hardtop (416). A discreet modernized fuel injection system has been installed as part of its restoration and drivability updates, while preserving the original character. Both cold and warm starts are therefore carried out without any issues.

Additional features include a folding rear jump seat (Notsitz), a 4-speed manual gearbox, and an indicated* mileage of approximately 21,255 miles. This W113 Pagoda represents a carefully restored example of one of Mercedes-Benz’s most elegant and technically significant classic roadsters. There are literally, hundreds of restoration images; all nicely documented in the cars documented 69 Page Valuation Report along with additional individual images available upon request.

Both the engine and 4 speed manual transmission have been completely overhauled and are featured in the cars comprehensive restoration valuation and condition report. Naturally, the differential and all axles have also been completely overhauled. The correct 14” (6J) wheels and hubcaps are finished purposely in the cars body colour, as opposed to the cars Hardtop Havana brown colour. There are literally hundreds of restoration images available with just a selected few showing on our website.

This classic luxury Mercedes W113 Coupé/Roadster offers a highly versatile configuration, featuring a fabric soft top and an optional removable hardtop — arguably one of the finest combinations ever available in a classic car. Effortless to drive and enjoy, it delivers timeless style and usability without fuss and remains, relatively speaking, one of the more affordable entries in today’s classic car market.