Restored, Long-time California Car. One-owner for the last 15 years.
1968 Mercedes-Benz 280SL
s/n 113 044 10 002861
Black with Black 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. The cars were continuously developed, with the 280SL being the ultimate version of the car, with its larger more powerful engine and all around disc brakes.
This particular car is a California car from new that has been with its current owner for over 20 years. It is fitted with the desirable 4-speed manual and is quite solid and rust-free throughout. The car has both tops and is fitted with genuine knock-off wire wheels as well as a Sony stereo. The car is complete with jack, spare, owner’s manual, original 1968 Mercedes-Benz full model line sales brochure, and service records for much recent work. The car has been continuously maintained and has service records for regular tune-ups, as well as maintenance to the fueling, hydraulic, and braking systems. Other items such as tires are also included.
Cosmetically, the car is an attractive and presentable driver. The body is great, with nice fit and no rust. The front fenders and nose panel are original to the car. The paint is a good quality job and is in great condition, though close scrutiny reveals some scratches and chips. The chrome is also presentable and looks nice, though again close inspection shows some pitting and scratches. The overall impression of the car is a nice looking driver to drive and enjoy regularly without fear of spoiling it.
The interior appears to be mostly original. The upholstery is in fine shape, including on the dashboard top. The instruments and switches are in good shape, with the exception of the ventilation system controls, clock and odometer, which are not functional. The wood is intact but would benefit from being refinished. The top headliner is in great shape, as is the soft top. The carpets are in good shape, as is the steering wheel center, though there are some cracks around the rim.
The trunk is excellent, retaining the original rubber mat. The floor under the mat is also excellent, being rust-free and in fine shape. The engine compartment is original in appearance, and while somewhat dirty, shows signs of proper maintenance and would respond well to detailing. The car was originally silver in color, which is visible on the insides of the fenders, though the inside of the hood and jambs were all painted black when the color was changed. The undercarriage is exceptionally solid and rust-free throughout, providing an outstanding fundamental base, which is particularly rare among these cars, which were user friendly in all weather and thus tend to be rusty.
This is a great car to use and enjoy. It is fundamentally excellent, and has been in the care of one California owner for two decades. It is well documented, attractive, and unusually equipped, and would make a great car to use and enjoy regularly.
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.
Fantasy Junction • 510-653-7555 • 1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608