Fantasy Junction

Description

1965 Mercedes-Benz 230 SL
s/n 11304210012834
Dark Blue with Parchment Interior

Representing Mercedes-Benz's trend towards producing more usable and practical sports cars, the 230/250/280SL line was meant to replace both the 190SL and the illustrious 300SL. The car was a comfortable two-seater that was to be neither too big nor too expensive, and exhibited excellent roadholding thanks to the innovative and sophisticated rear suspension design. Built to Mercedes' usually high standards and employing excellent visibility, the cars were popular and sold well, even if they lost the raw sporting prowess of the 300.

This particular car is a comprehensively restored and beautifully presented original European delivery example complete with a color-matching hard top. It is desirably optioned with a Becker Mexico AM/FM radio, 4-speed transmission, power steering, and one-piece headlamps. It is also currently fitted with headrests, as would be the case on a 280SL, which enhance the safely aspect of this early Pagoda-bodied SL. The current owner purchased this example after a doctor in the State of North Carolina who had evidently commissioned a comprehensive restoration of the car in 2007, reporting expenditures in the range of $120,000 for the work performed. While we do not have records on file at this time, what is evident from personal inspection is that the car was beautifully repainted, the interior largely reupholstered, the dash wood restored, the majority of the brightwork refinished, the engine bay and undercarriage detailed, the soft top frame restored and new dark blue canvas top material fitted, and the hard top restored. It is likely the case that the restoration included considerable mechanical works, and the car runs, drives, and feels like a car which was both mechanically and cosmetically restored.

The exterior is very sharp, displaying excellent body and shut lines, and phenomenal paintwork. The chrome, and light colored interior contrast beautifully with the dark exterior color. The lenses, window glass, and emblems are all in good restored condition. The interior is also beautifully refinished and done in materials faithful to the original format. The radio, gauges, and switchgear all appear to have been restored, and the heater controls are free. Both the hard top and soft top are in beautiful restored condition.

The engine compartment is quite clean and nicely detailed, showing much evidence of recent work. Ancillary components such as the brake booster, radiator, and engine accessories are all clean and have the appearance of a recently restored car, although we do not have documentation on hand to confirm exactly what was done, and by whom. The firewall pad is excellent, and the plastic window washer bottle is present. The trunk has a new factory rubber mat. The jack and tire iron are present, as is a partially complete tool roll. The undercarriage of the car is in very good shape, and is representative of a comprehensively restored car.

The car is a pleasure to drive. The engine runs very well, operating smoothly and without issue than being a bit cold-blooded. The transmission shifts smoothly and selects gears properly, which is not always the case with these cars. The brakes are effective and drama-free in operation, while the steering and suspension are tight while still providing a civilized ride. Overall, there is a coherence and wholeness to the car’s operation that reminds the driver why Mercedes had such a legendary reputation for quality.

This is an outstanding opportunity to acquire a superb 230SL. Finished in a great color combination and wonderfully restored, this car is also structurally solid and a joy to drive. The feel of the car has a strong 1960s flavor that is missing from the later cars, making this an interesting and particularly evocative alternative to the 280SL.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608