HISTORY FILE – This original European (German) example was built in early 1968 and bears the chassis number 113 044-12-000632. Delivered to the Kiel area on the 02 February 1968, before being exported to the United States some ten years later where, ironically, over half of all 280 SL models ever produced were originally sold. The car comes back to Europe in 2014 to HK Engineering in Berlin who carried out extensive gearbox work for the cars new custodian before being shipped to Ireland in 2016. Once again, back in Germany the car is now offered with full German registration and Historical plate. Two factory options appear on the engine plate: 426 (combined 420 + 422) automatic and power steering, and (516) is a Radio Becker Grand Prix. Interestingly, the car also boasts a third seat (Kinder Sitz) and tinted glass. This example is not perfect by any stretch of the imagination but, it has massive restoration potential for such an early build car. The Data Build Card is available.

EXTERIOR – Essentially, between its launch in 1963 and final production in 1971, the SL range remained virtually unchanged which, in today’s terms is simply unheard of and certainly very rare for the period, so it’s testament to the ‘timeless wonder’ design. Our early 1968 example could easily just be driven and authentically enjoyed but, it’s also a wonderful base example for a complete restoration, so viewing is highly recommended. Several small areas do now require paint attention following an earlier respray and wing replacements in the states in its original Papyrus White (code 717,) but that’s a decision for the future owner. Similarly, a couple of pieces of rubber and chrome external trim will also need replacing. The Hardtop is in a good condition and is still in its original Dark Blue colour guise (code 904).

INTERIOR – Possibly the highlight of the car, the blue interior (code 245) has received new correct perforated leather upholstery in recent years and is in like new condition. The correct carpeted material has been used for the rear of the backrests. The car is also fitted with factory token “Kinder Sitz” or rear transverse “Jump Seat”. Additionally, the Ivory covered plastic steering wheel may not be to everyone’s taste but, it is part of the original specification. The blue synthetic loop-pile material carpeting is in perfect condition. Our car is also fitted with tinted windows and Radio Becker Grand Prix (code 516).

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION – The car drives wonderfully well and offers a healthy turn of speed. The six cylinder-inline 2778cc (four-stroke) engine produces a sprightly 170ps (125kw). The 4 speed automatic gearbox changes up, and down as it should following a rebuild by marque specialist HK Engineering in 2016.

WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES – It’s well documented just how ahead of it’s time the W113 was when it came to road handling and the use of its purpose built tyres in the original 230 SL range. Plenty of tread is present on our Maxis 205/70 R14 95v tyres to confirm that famous road handling which was revolutionary for the period.

UNDERNEATH