Fantasy Junction

Description

1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SL Convertible
s/n 1130441202022744
Dark Blue with Tan Interior

After more than a century of superb automotive craftsmanship, Mercedes-Benz continues to be heralded as one of the premier innovators of performance and luxury. Decades of racing achievement and luxury refinement matured dramatically as US market growth encouraged new models, further endearing the brand to new and dedicated customers.

The mid 60s proved to be a rapidly changing time for sports cars, the budding 230SL needed to replace both the 190SL and the iconic 300SL – an ominous task as the 300SL was a performance brute, but the 190, was nearly the opposite. The 230SL delivered perfectly, proving immediately appealing to customers seeking a charming and sporty car with clean styling and captivating details. The clarity and simplicity of design continued under the hood with technical advancements including Bosch fuel-injection, overhead-cam six cylinder engine, and syncromesh transmission, delivering reliable but brisk performance. A convertible top, and substantial trunk space allowed for elegant presence and practical traveling, even over long distances. Among the many features offered in the car, several innovative safety aspects were incorporated into the unique body design including being the first sports car with a rigid passenger cell and designated crumple zones, industry standard today, but thoroughly new for a sports car in 1963.

This wonderful 280SL represents the final year of development and refinement of this iconic series Mercedes-Benz. The most notable improvement was the upgraded 2.8L engine delivering 170hp, but other minor improvements made during the final year of production include an electric rear window defogger. Originally delivered in brown, and spending most of its life in Southern California, this North America spec. example has been fitted with the desirable European headlights and repainted in a very elegant dark blue. Records indicate that the car was serviced regularly when new, and entered into the factory service booklet miles through the 1970s. Recent mechanical work over the past two years includes a 2016 transmission rebuild including replacing the front pump seal, torque converter seal, and driveshaft support, rebuild of the shifter assembly, a major service including valve adjustment, valve cover gasket, new points, new rear fuel pump hoses, new thermostat, replacement of rear axle bearings and seals, new rear brake pads and rotors, renewing front brake pads and rotors, new alternator and voltage regulator, oil change, chassis lube, and new battery.

The paint is in very nice condition overall with high gloss and quality finishing in all areas. The paint was applied with care to all inner surfaces, edges, corners, and trim, leaving the area under the hood with the original paint and tidy cowl insulation pad. The doors shut very well and retain good panel gaps. The hood and trunk also exhibit good fit and closure. The chrome appears in very good condition with some evidence of use, light hazing, but otherwise clean and bright. All lenses, lighting, and glass are in very good condition with no chips or marks on the beautiful windshield. The matching dark blue convertible top is nicely tailored with a clear and taut rear window. The car comes with the distinctive “Pagoda Roof” hardtop, which is painted dark blue to match. The exterior presentation is handsome, with proper stance, smooth bodylines and delightful details.

The interior, a Mercedes-Benz hallmark of fine materials and quality finishes, echoes the luxury from when if first left the factory. The MB Tex has been redone and shows nicely overall with slight bagginess in the seat sides and light soiling on the carpet. The dash is nicely preserved with very clean instruments and recently redone wood trim. Of particular note is the Frigiking A/C unit (which blows, but particularly cold) and is nicely detailed underneath the dashboard. The car has been updated with a modern radio and an aftermarket car alarm with electric door locks as part of the system. Drivable and enjoyable for regular use, the interior is particularly delightful in the contrasting color against the dark blue paint.

The engine compartment is nicely detailed and properly presented with correct parts, factory components, and updated lines, hoses, and electrical as needed. The trunk is clean and nicely finished with quality materials.

The car starts easily and idles smoothly, having been thoughtfully used over recent years. Driving manners are as expected for a nice solid example with smooth shifting from the automatic transmission and reliable kick-down into lower gears, or easy manual selection. The ride engineering, disc brakes, and responsive suspension create a nice balance and composed power delivery for two occupants, with plenty of luggage space for refined touring. The floor, trunk floor, and undercarriage appear solid and straight, showing evidence of general but careful use. The car is offered with a complete set of factory owners books, reference manuals, tools and roll, jacking equipment, a host of previous service records, and assorted reference materials. The car is also accompanied by the hardtop and convenient garage storage stand.

This is a wonderful opportunity to acquire a driver ready 280SL. Finished in great colors with optional A/C, this handsome and iconic car is ready for enjoyable driving, touring with a friend, or overnight adventures. With a few suitcases safely stored and the top down, this 280SL will eagerly consume highways or side roads, leading to new discoveries and joys that only a classic Mercedes-Benz can deliver.

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