1969 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Roadster

The 280 SL was the last of the series, succeeding the introductory 230 SL and interim 250 SL. This particular car is a well-persevered original example presented with the Pagoda-style hard top. Made as a USA model, it was built in Sindelfingen, West Germany, in early April 1969 and was delivered to a Michigan dealer that summer. In the ensuing 44 years, the car has seen just two owners, both in Michigan. Its straight-six, fuel-injected M130 motor makes 170 horsepower; four-wheel disc brakes are standard. Some Pagoda owners consider the 1969 to be the finest USA model as most improvements to the car had been implemented without later complex emission controls. These changes could make tuning and repairs difficult and costly.

During production, the Pagodas were available with a wide variety of interior, exterior, and separate hard top/wheel cover colors. This car is a dark red with a parchment interior and dark brown convertible top. Pagodas were often seen at country clubs and other places where people of means who could afford its charms were found. The list price in 1969 was $8,046, which was on the high end of two-seat roadsters of the era. While often considered a sports car, it was a luxury touring car with sporting characteristics.

This car is equipped with many options that customized the owner experience; these include bumper over-riders; tinted, heat-absorbing glass; chrome molding strips on the hard top, white wall tires, automatic transmission, Becker radio and power steering.