Range | Daily driver range |
Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
Type | 230 SL |
Body | Cabriolet 3 places |
Production | 19 831 exemplaires |
First print | |
Body color | Vert |
Interior color | Cuir cognac |
Motor | 6 Cylindres en ligne injection |
Displacement | 2 308 cm2 |
Powerful | 150 ch DIN |
Gearboxe | Mécanique à 4 rapports |
Dimensions | L : 4,33 m - l : 1,76 m |
Options | Direction assistée, troisième siège |
Features | Entièrement rénovée |
Mileage | 46 500 km |
Guarantee | 12 Mois |
Price | 135 000 € |
Mercedes 230 SL 1965
The Geneva Motor Show in March 1963 saw the presentation of a Mercedes which would leave its mark on the history of the German manufacturer. That car was the 230 SL. The two letters were the abbreviation for “Sport Leicht”, literally “Sport Light”. In fact, it was an elegant cabriolet model which was destined to replace the legendary 190 SL. It was supplied with a standard hardtop with a concave shape that recalled the roofs of Buddhist temples and earned it the nickname “Pagoda”. Three versions were offered: a two-seat coupé with a hardtop but no soft top, a version with both soft and hardtops, and finally the “California” with the hardtop and a bench seat in the area where the hood was stowed. Despite its name, the SL was more a pleasant and good-looking convertible than a sports car. Its 150bhp engine delivered excellent performance for the time, but its roadholding and braking curbed the enthusiasm of more reckless drivers. Driven with greater moderation and just a dash of sportiness, on the other hand, it proved a real delight on the road. The flexibility of its six-cylinder engine allowed it to pick up smoothly from very low revs, while the throaty roar of its engine at higher revs was a treat for music lovers. It was reliable, elegant and sexy, and despite its prohibitively high price, nearly 50,000 cars were built until 1971, when it was replaced by the R107. It underwent few changes during its career. The engine capacity was increased to 2.5 litres in 1967, then to 2.8 in 1968. A few improvements were made, such as an oil cooler and disc brakes all round in 1967, but in general, it remained unchanged during its career. It left its mark on its era and turned a good many heads. That remains the case today, whenever you have the opportunity to see one which has been spared from the ravages of time.
The model presented here
The model offered for sale is a 230 SL which was delivered new in France on 2 February 1965. It is powered by the 150bhp 2.3-litre engine with fuel injection. Its original dark green paintwork is quite unusual and goes perfectly with its cognac-coloured leather interior. It is fitted with a green Alcantara hood, power steering and a third seat so that an additional passenger can enjoy the pleasure of a ride in it. Its previous owner purchased the car from Mercedes Classic three years ago during the Rétromobile show. Since then, it has only been driven another 2000km (1250 miles). The car had previously undergone a complete restoration. The body was stripped bare and repainted to perfection. The upholstery was also restored to its original condition, along with the carpets, chrome and wood trim. The engine was likewise restored, as were all the mechanical components. The car asks only to be driven and to fulfill your desires. it will be sold with a 12–month guarantee.