Lot 66: Mercedes-Benz 230 SL
Mercedes have been producing an SL (Sport Leicht) model or range of models since 1954 when the landmark 300SL was unveiled. The second generation SLs began with the 230 of 1963. Designed by Paul Bracq, its wonderfully crisp styling clothed a monocoque chassis equipped with all-round independent suspension (wishbones and coil springs at the front and coil sprung swing axles at the rear), power assisted disc/drum brakes and recirculating ball steering. Powered by a 2306cc straight-six engine mated to either four-speed manual or automatic transmission, the model was credited with 150 bhp and 145 lb ft of torque. That gave it a top speed of around 120mph, and the svelte Roadster was universally praised by the contemporary motoring press for its performance, roadholding and refinement. The SL was available in Californian Coupe, Convertible or Coupe Convertible guises, the last of which came with both a soft-top and the famous 'Pagoda' hardtop roof - so called because of its gently scalloped centre section. Most of the early cars were of this type. Of the 48,912 W113 Series cars made between 1963 and 1971, 19,831 were 230SLs, 11,726 of which were exported. The popular W113 Series of cars was replaced by the R107 350SL/450SL range.
The automatic transmission 230SL offered was manufactured in 1965. A three owner right-hand drive example, it was restored as an historic rally car in time for the 2008 Classic Marathon and subsequently campaigned on the 2009 Highland Fling event. The work was apparently carried out professionally with numerous parts supplied by Roger Edwards. The vendor describes the coachwork (including replacement brown hood), paintwork, engine and transmission as "excellent" and the interior trim as "very good". Finished in Cream with Black hardtop and Red/Cream interior, the SL is taxed and MOT'd into 2011 and seemingly ready to do battle once more.
| Auction |
Auction of Cars and Motorcycles H&H Sales Limited, The Pavilion Gardens, Buxton, Derbyshire |
|---|---|
| Type | Car |
| Lot Number | 66 |
| Estimate | £18000-£20000 |
| Outcome | SOLD |
| Hammer Price | - |
| Hammer Price (inc premium) | £17600 |
| Year | 1965 |
| Condition rating | 0 |
| Registration number | FAV 55C |
| Mileage | - |
| Chassis number | 11304222008475 |
| Engine number | R798122001612 |
| Engine capacity (cc) | 2306 |
| Engine - cylinders | |
| Number of doors |