1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SL - Extremely Original W113, Extensively Restored in 2014

1971 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class 280SL Description

Offered for sale is an impeccable 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SL that was fully restored in 2014 and which has accrued a mere +/-300 miles since completion. Prior to restoration, it was an incredibly honest and original example: accident-free original body with original fenders and factory spot welds, numbers matching original mechanicals, entirely rust-free original undercarriage, etc. We know the car quite well because we originally acquired it in 2013 and sold it to itsthird owner prior to his embarking on anearly year long, $60k+ restoration. It’s worth noting that the third owner–the one who commissioned and oversaw the restoration–was a seasoned dealer and collector, and consequently the $60k+ that he spent on restoration was on a wholesale, industry cost basis; what he exacted would have cost a retail client an additional small fortune.

When we sold him the car in 2013 it was a true survivor - extremely solid and original (entirely original rust-free undercarriage, accident free body with original fenders, numbers matching engine, original Cognac interior, etc.), but exhibiting the patina one would expect of a never restored, two owner, 42 year old Mercedes. We can send you a link to our original 2013 ad if you’re interested. We sold the car for $65k, but do keep in mind that although it was only a few short years ago, 2013 was before W113s truly started to sky-rocket in value. A concours quality example was at that point no more than $100k, and could be bought for considerably less. That’s certainly not the case today…

Following the work that’s been subsequently performed, the car is just shy of concours condition. It’s a car you can take to a local show or Mercedes club event and win the admiration of other enthusiasts, but, more importantly, it’s a near flawless example that allows for turn-key use. When factoring for the cost of the car and the cost of restoration, replication would far exceed most 280SLs on the market, and based on that fact, and the prices that similar cars are trading for at the top of the market ($150k+), we know this to be an exceptional value.

Speaking of value: there are at least 10 examples currently on the market that are in no better condition and are far less original in terms of matching numbers, a wholly original body, a rust free original undercarriage and impeccable correct cosmetics. Please feel free to view some of these similar offerings at dealerships like Aventura Motors, Daniel Schmitt and Autosport Designs.

Their prices are (appropriately) well over $100k–if not over $150k–andI can assure you that this car is on par with most of the examples thatthey’re offering. Over the last ten years we’ve owned and sold more than 100 W113s, which is to say that we truly know the cars and know the difference between#3, #2 and #1 level examples. This is a very solid #2, as are a majority of the cars our competitors are currently offering, however this car is being offered for much, much less. Why, you may ask?

The simple answer is that it’s a consignment car that is currently in British Columbia and registered there. The current owner, an enthusiast and collector, purchased the car from our original buyer for anexorbitant price following the completion of restoration. He’s subsequently found another collector car that he’s excited to purchase and he reached out to us to see if we could quickly find a new home for this lovely example.

Because the car’s in British Columbia, it’s important to note that the askingprice factors for the customs and titling costs necessary to send it to any U.S.State. Also, because we are thetechnical seller of the car, wewill handle all aspects of the process to bring the car into the U.S. fromCanada and get it titled as necessary. Should youwish to import it to another country, those customs and titling expenses would of course be discounted.

Below is a brief synopsis of some of the work that was completed during restoration:

Glass out, engine out, trim off, High Quality Professional Repaint in factory original Dark Red.All New Rubber following repaint.Fully Replaced Exterior Chrome TrimNew Correct, Crack-Free Steering WheelEntirely New Cognac Leather Interior, Carpets, Headliner and Interior Panel UpholsteryRefinished Wood Interior TrimNew German Canvas Convertible TopMechanical Work Including (but notlimited to):New Oil Pan GasketNew Valve Cover GasketNew Front and Rear Crank SealsNew Exhaust Manifold GasketNew Water PumpNew ThermostatNew Upper and Lower Radiator HosesRodded-Out and Refinished RadiatorDrill & Re-Tap 5 Broken Bolts on Side of Engine BlockRebuilt Alternator with New Front BearingNew Ignition Points and Condenser, New Cap, Rotor and Plug WiresNew Motor Mounts

Because the car remains in the current owner’s care, we’ve not been able to take all of our normal photographs. That being said, with the exception of the first photograph (which is from 2013 – pre-restoration), these photographs were taken last week. The pictures aren't great, but they should provide a general sense of the car's excellent condition.

This is an uncommon opportunity to acquire a beautifully and freshly restored, extremely solid, mechanically excellent, final year 280SL finished in an exceptionally tasteful and desirable livery, and at a bargain price. If you or anyone you know is in the market for an impeccable W113, this car deserves of serious consideration.