Basic information and history

The Mercedes Benz 230 SL (W113) of the 1966 model year, is the first iteration of the iconic Paul Bracq-designed Pagoda with the characteristically concave hardtop. The model introduced a more modern chassis architecture for Mercedes sports cars with front disc brakes, independent suspension and a 2.3-liter six with mechanical injection. The combination of timeless shape, good long-distance comfort and distinctive driving feel makes the W113 a sought-after classic.

This example is said to be Swedish-sold and well-maintained. The odometer reading is stated to be 101,000 km and can be guaranteed according to the seller. The car is described as quiet and tight in the body and drivetrain without any noise. The paint is in very good condition and the car has previously received some paint improvements. The undercarriage is said to be very nice and the car is rust-treated.

Curiosities for the model include the factory-fitted notsitz solution behind the front seats that was an option on the W113. This particular example has an extra rear seat, original radio and comes with a hardtop and new canvas fabric cab (not fitted).

Information above provided by the seller.

Equipment and options

• Hard-top
• Extra seat in the rear (Emergency seat)
• Radio
• Leather upholstery

Actions and improvements carried out according to the seller:

• New canvas cab
• Newly renovated steering wheel
• Refurbished fuel pump
• Refurbished brakes
• All oils in the drivetrain changed
• Anti-rust treated undercarriage
• New tires all around with white sidewalls

Condition

Body and exterior The paint is described as very nice with good luster. The seller states that previous paint touch-ups have occurred. No obvious scratches or door cracks are noted according to the information. Glass is in very good condition. Chrome, moldings, headlight lenses and emblems are acceptable in relation to age, with some wear consistent with the time. The chassis is stated to be very nice and the car is stated to be rust-free and rust-treated. See pictures for your own assessment.

Interior The interior is in very good condition. All controls work as they should and no noises are noted. The steering wheel has been recently renovated. Leather upholstery in good used condition with a small mark on the driver's seat. Door sills and steps have minor signs of wear. The hardtop's headliner is good and the canvas soft top is new. The dashboard is stated without any complaints according to the seller. See pictures for your own assessment.

Tires and rims New tires all around with white sidewalls. Left rear rim shows small marks of paint loss around the hubcap and two of the hubcaps have minor scratches on the edges. See pictures for your own assessment.

Mechanics and function The engine is described as being in very good condition and running very well. Fuel pump renovated. Gearbox and driveline in excellent condition with all oils changed. The brake system is renovated and works excellently. No known faults in functions or mechanics according to the seller.

Service history

The seller states that the service book is missing but that there are service receipts and documentation that prove the maintenance performed. The last service was done on 2020-06-11. Noted measures include a renovated fuel pump, renovated brakes and oil changes in the driveline. Ongoing maintenance is confirmed by receipts and the general condition of the car. The odometer reading of 101,000 km is stated to be guaranteed by the seller.

Summary

A very nice and well-maintained 1966 Mercedes Benz 230 SL Pagoda, reportedly sold in Sweden, with strong mechanics, nice paint, new canvas convertible top, hardtop and sought-after details such as the unusual transverse extra seat (notsitz) and leather upholstery. New tires with white sidewalls, refreshed steering wheel, renovated brakes and renovated fuel pump give a ready-to-drive impression. The undercarriage is rust-protected and is described as very nice.

For the collector or driver looking for a usable Pagoda with the right feel and aesthetics, this example offers a balanced mix of original feel, documented maintenance and attractive specification.