1970 Mercedes-Benz 280SL

The Mercedes-Benz 280SL was introduced in 1967 and the latest version of a line that began as the 230SL in 1963. It came equipped with a new 2.8-liter six-cylinder engine offering 170 horsepower, an increase of 20 horsepower over the preceding 250SL. The top speed of 120 mph was no greater but it was significantly quicker 'off-the-line' with its zero-to-sixty mph time being a second better than its predecessor. The 280SL received the nickname, 'pagoda top' after its unique and distinctive cabin shape, and the SL models ranked among the best-loved sports-tourers of their day.

The Mercedes-Benz 230SL was introduced in March of 1963 at the Geneva Salon as a replacement for both the 300SL and 190SL models. It introduced the industry to a comprehensive suite of built-in safety features with engineering led by Bela Barényi. The list includes a rigid monocoque construction, front and rear crumple zones, and the removal of sharp edges from the interior compartment. Additionally, the optional hardtop offered strength and rollover protection, along with outstanding visibility with its slim pillars and tall windows.

The Mercedes-Benz 230SL was offered as a hardtop coupe, an open version with a removable hardtop, and an open car with a folding soft top. Many of its mechanical features were shared with the contemporary 220 SEb (W111/3) line and power sourced from a 2.3-liter inline 'six' with single overhead camshafts and fuel injection. The rear compensator spring allowed firmer shock absorbers and softer springs. Dual-circuit brakes provided stopping power and radial-ply tires enhanced the vehicle's safety and refinement.

The evolutionary 2.5-liter 250SL arrived in late 1966 for the 1967 model year, bringing a collapsible steering column, improved seat belts, and four-wheel disc brakes. The final W113 model was the 2.8-liter 280SL, produced from December of 1967 to February of 1971. The changes it brought were detail-oriented in nature, and among them were enhanced torque and flexibility. The 2,778cc single overhead camshaft inline-6 cylinder engine had Bosch mechanical fuel injection and delivered 170 horsepower (SAE). It was backed by a four-speed automatic and power-assisted four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes kept the 94.5-inch wheelbase vehicle in the driver's control. The suspension was fully independent with wishbones and coil springs with single-joint swing axles. Zero-to-sixty mph was accomplished in 8.7 seconds.

The total 280SL production was 23,885 units, with 7,935 built for 1970, with 4,992 of those exported to the United States market. Updates for 1970 included Fuchs alloy wheels available as a factory-fitted option, and optional Bosch Lichteinheit headlights with halogen main beam.

by Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2021