Lot 202: 1965 Mercedes-Benz 230 SL Roadster

In March 1963 the 230SL made its debut at the Geneva Show, replacing the much acclaimed 190SL and 300SL models. Like its 190SL predecessor, its mechanical elements were derived from a contemporary saloon, in this instance the popular 220SE model. The 230SL's 2.3 litre engine was an enlarged version of its fuel injected six cylinder overhead camshaft unit and there was the option of automatic or manual transmission. Suspension was all independent with a low pivot swing axle at the rear. Mercedes engineering integrity, together with elegance and practicality, made the pagoda top SL cars among the most distinctive designs of the era, in closed form offering handsome proportions and coupé-like comfort and with the hard top removed offering lively open-top performance. It is largely thanks to these attributes that they remain so universally popular today and command such a large market following. This Pagoda 230 SL was delivered new to Germany in 1965 where it has since remained. The car was completely restored approximately 4 years ago and since then has only been used sparingly during the summer months. Being one of the sought after manual versions it is finished in red with a tan leather interior and tan canvas hood and is described by the vendor to be in good condition. Apart from the stunning good looks the car also benefits from the legendery Mercedes build quality that we all know and respect. The car comes complete with all relevant German paperwork.Cette Pagoda 230 SL fut livrée neuve en Allemagne en 1965 jusqu' nos jours. Elle fut completement restorée il y a environ 4 ans et depuis n'a été utilisé de faon sporadique durant l'été. De couleur rouge avec interieur cuir, elle est décrite par son actuel propriétaire comme étant dans de bonne condition. Elle est de conduite manuelle, et possde, outre son superbe look, les bénéfices, la qualité et la robusteste de Mercedes. Elle est mise en vite avec ses papiers allemands.