If you're already in the market for a Pagoda, I don't need to extol the virtues of the type. For 1968, the 250SL was a technological tour de force. Fuel injected overhead camshaft straight six. Disc brakes on all four wheels. Aluminum bonnet, decklid and door skins to save weight. The first sports car to feature crumple zones and a rigid passenger cabin. Available with a four-speed automatic gearbox. And the list goes on...
I try not to play favorites among our inventory (they're all special cars in their own way), but the Pagoda Roof is a car I would like to have for my personal collection one day. Its driving dynamics are sporting, refined and comfortable -- and build quality is unparalleled. The feel is incredibly solid, with none of the chassis flex and rattles that plague British roadsters from the same era. I can think of no other vintage car I would rather take for a spirited top-down ride on a pleasant day.
This three-owner example presents itself quite well. It has seen one repaint in the correct color over a very straight and totally rust-free body. There is no evidence of any bodywork or repair throughout its life; however, the paint is older and shows some patina of age. The original hard top is in good condition, and the folding soft top is newer and in good condition. Panel gaps are excellent; the doors open and close like a vault. All glass, chrome and brightwork look fantastic, and the underside is in great shape with no rust and no evidence of prior repair. Floor pans, rockers and shock mounts are solid and rust free. This SL is fitted with desirable Euro headlights.
The interior is excellent, with crystal-clear gauges -- all of which are functioning properly. The dash is flawless; the wood trim has clearly been restored at some point. The original Becker AM/FM radio is still installed and works fine. Upholstery and carpet are correct and in good condition.
Mechanically, this is a turn-key example with good service history and documentation. With just 84,413 actual miles, it runs and shifts beautifully. Steering, suspension, brakes and power delivery are all tight and responsive. The car has new Michelin tires; the correct steel wheels and hubcaps are excellent. The car is remarkably complete, down to the correct spare tire cover, tool kit, all books and a copy of the original data card.
This Pagoda was clearly well-cared for and never neglected, but it has also never been fully restored simply because it never needed to be. It's a turn-key, very presentable weekend driver as is -- and would become a concours contender with a repaint and further underhood detailing.
At this price point, it represents an excellent value and would make a great investment for the long-term owner. Give us a call at 404-692-5250 if you're interested in learning more about this classic SL.
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