Lot 219: 1969 Mercedes-Benz 280SL

‘Some cars don't change, they just get better. The Mercedes-Benz 280SL, latest version of a line that began as the 230SL in 1963, is the same as ever, just better,’ concluded Road & Track after testing a 280SL in 1968. ‘For those who value engineering finesse and high quality construction, it’s alone in the field,’ enthused the highly respected American motoring magazine, while its manufacturer considered the 280SL, ‘a Grand Tourer in the traditional sense’ and ‘a unique combination of sports car performance and saloon car comfort (a Mercedes-Benz saloon naturally),’ opinions that the majority of commentators were only too happy to endorse.
The last of a popular and extremely successful line begun with the 230SL of 1963, the Mercedes-Benz 280SL was introduced in 1967. The new 2.8-litre six-cylinder engine produced 180bhp, 30 horsepower more than the preceding 250SL’s, and while the 280SL’s 120mph top speed was no greater the newer car was significantly quicker off the mark, its 0-60mph time of 10 seconds being a whole second better than its predecessor’s.
In matters of handling, brakes and ride quality, Road & Track rated the 280SL as one of the outstanding cars of the day: its (optional, but recommended) power steering was reckoned the best available anywhere; the handling was near neutral, with quick response to any steering input; while the ride, over all sorts of roads, was ‘fantastic’. As far as comfort and usability was concerned, the 280SL similarly excelled: ‘The SL is perhaps the only sports car that gives a commanding driving position and view of the road. It's not a very low car, and its tall glass areas, relatively low beltline and visible corners make it one of the most manoeuvrable traffic cars we've ever driven in spite of its relatively large size.’

Christened ‘pagoda top’ after their distinctive cabin shape, these SL models were amongst the best-loved sports-tourers of their day and remain highly sought after by collectors.

Victor Ribeiro purchased this 280SL from the Rolf Meyer Collection in 2003. Supplied new to the USA, the car is finished in brown with matching interior, the latter retaining its Becker Europa radio, and has been fitted with a stainless-steel exhaust system. The car is offered complete with tool kit, stamped service booklet, old US bill of sale and Portuguese registration papers.

Victor Ribeiro a acquis cette 280 SL lors de la vente de la Collection Rolf Meyer en 2003 à Paris. Vendue neuve aux Etats-Unis, la voiture est peinte en marron avec un magnifique intérieur en cuir havane, assorti d'un poste de radio Becker Europa. Elle possède aussi une ligne d'échappement en acier inox. La voiture est proposée avec sa trousse d'outillage, son carnet d'entretien dûment rempli, l'ancienne facture américaine et des papiers d'immatriculation portugais.