1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL – Exterior and Interior – Classic Expo Salzburg 2021

The Mercedes-Benz 280 SL, introduced in late 1967, was the final and most powerful evolution of the W113. Nearly 49,000 “Pagoda” SLs were built (about half were 280 SLs), and roughly 40% were sold in the U.S.

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1 Technical Details:

2 Design:

3 Historical Significance:

4 Quirks and Pop Culture:

5 Display and preservation:

6 Conclusion:

7 Sources:

Technical Details:

The Mercedes-Benz 280 SL’s 2.8 L inline-six with Bosch fuel injection produces about 170 hp, channeled through either a 4-speed automatic or manual gearbox. Mercedes used aluminum for the hood, trunk, and door skins to reduce weight. Its independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes provided confident handling and stopping power. This made the Pagoda a nimble yet comfortable roadster, ideal for both spirited driving and relaxed cruising.

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz
Model: Mercedes-Benz 280 SL (W113 series)
Years of Production: 1967–1971

Design:

Styled by Paul Bracq (with safety engineer Béla Barényi), the W113 featured a distinctive concave hardtop that earned it the “Pagoda” nickname. The Mercedes-Benz 280 SL’s styling is marked by clean lines and a poised, well-proportioned stance (long hood, compact cabin, short tail). Inside, the two-seater balances luxury and simplicity with leather seats, a wood-trimmed dash, and clear gauges. Barényi also integrated safety features like a rigid passenger cell and crumple zones, pioneering occupant protection in a sports car.

Historical Significance:

Introduced in 1963 as the successor to both the legendary 300 SL and the 190 SL, the Mercedes-Benz 280 SL modernized Mercedes-Benz’s roadster concept. The Mercedes-Benz 280 SL, introduced in late 1967, was the final and most powerful evolution of the W113. Nearly 49,000 “Pagoda” SLs were built (about half were 280 SLs), and roughly 40% were sold in the U.S.. The model solidified the SL’s reputation as a civilized sports car – offering top-notch engineering, comfort and respectable performance. In 1971, the 280 SL was phased out, making way for the next-generation R107 SL.

Quirks and Pop Culture:

The Mercedes-Benz 280 SL’s “Pagoda” moniker is itself a charming quirk – a nickname now synonymous with the W113. It also had celebrity fans: John Lennon owned a Mercedes-Benz 230 SL, and numerous Hollywood stars were often seen with their Pagoda SLs. Today, these cars often command top dollar at auctions and inspire dedicated owner clubs. The Pagoda SL is highly prized by collectors worldwide, celebrated for its timeless design and the engineering innovation it brought to 1960s sports motoring.

Display and preservation:

The vehicle was exhibited at the Classic Expo Salzburg in 2021. As one of Austria’s premier classic car events, the show has established itself as a central meeting point for collectors, restorers, and enthusiasts from across Central Europe. The 2021 edition took place at Messezentrum Salzburg and featured more than 250 exhibitors, along with a strong turnout of over 20,000 visitors. Attendees could explore a broad range of offerings—from historical vehicles and motorcycles to automobilia, spare parts, and literature.

Conclusion:

The 1970 Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz 280 SL “Pagoda” remains one of the most iconic classic Mercedes roadsters. Its blend of timeless design, innovative safety, and enjoyable performance has cemented its status as a collector favorite. This model represents the elegance of the 1960s – a landmark in automotive history that set the template for the SL-Class models that followed.