1969 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL Coupe

Mercedes-Benz in the 1960s

By the late '60s, Mercedes-Benz engineers were struggling with low-powered models, seeming to fall short with previous entries, namely the 220 and 230 in the SL series. After lackluster sales of the 250, Mercedes-Benz offered the 280 SL in 1967. Though the 280 did not have as much horsepower as a Corvette or the E-type, it was still regarded as quick for its time. The overseas version of the 280 SL got 190 horsepower from the new 2,778 cc inline six, but newly instituted American emissions regulations limited U.S.-spec cars to just 180 horsepower and 193 lbs./ft. of torque.

This Car
The engine of this 1969 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL features fuel injection mated with a freshly restored automatic transmission. These attractive sports cars were highly regarded when new and have remained sought-after classics. Like the previous models, the 280 SL has a beautifully proportioned body, which has just enjoyed an extensive 12-month restoration to bring it back to showroom-like condition. The beautifully done raspberry leather interior highlights a comfortable cockpit surrounded by restored gauges, a period-correct radio, a clock, and matching creme cashboard. This car also features a rare, optional, 4-speed gearbox. The SL is fitted with a distinctive black canvas top and comes with a body-matching hardtop, also known as a pagoda roof.

This car represents the quality of not only one of Germany's finest automakers.

Source - Gooding & Company