This 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SL boasts a remarkable ownership history, having been with its previous owner for 44 years before being purchased by the seller in 2017. Following the acquisition, a comprehensive restoration was undertaken and completed in 2018, bringing this classic roadster back to its factory-fresh condition.
Powered by a 2.8-liter M130 inline-six engine paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, this W113 is finished in the elegant Tobacco Brown exterior complemented by Cognac leather upholstery. The car features a dark brown convertible top alongside a body-color removable hardtop, enhancing its versatility and classic appeal.
Exterior details include 14″ steel wheels with painted covers fitted with 195/75 Hankook whitewall tires, European-specification headlights, a retractable antenna, and a driver-side mirror. The body was meticulously stripped to bare metal by Classics Auto Body & Collision and repainted by Nine11s Restoration in its original Tobacco Brown. Chrome components were either replated or replaced to pristine condition, and factory Mercedes windshield glass with new seals was installed.
Inside, the cabin was reupholstered in Cognac leather by Ocean Beach Upholstery, featuring refinished wood trim, replacement German carpets, and a new headliner. Comfort and convenience appointments include power steering, power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes, a Becker Europa AM/FM radio, an analog clock, and a floor-mounted gear shifter. The air conditioning system received new components such as a replacement drier and dual condensers, although the system has yet to be charged.
The instrument cluster was restored to full functionality during the rebuild, with VDO gauges displaying a 140-mph speedometer, a tachometer with a 6,500-rpm redline, and readouts for fuel level, oil pressure, and coolant temperature. The odometer reads just 16,000 miles, with only approximately 500 miles driven since the restoration in 2018.
Mechanically, the M130 inline-six engine features Bosch mechanical fuel injection and was fully rebuilt by Motor Works, with the cylinder head rebuilt by Metric Motors. The restoration included new pistons, valves, bearings, seals, and a timing chain, plus a replacement camshaft and a balanced crankshaft. The Bosch fuel-injection pump was resealed and calibrated, and new injectors, fuel lines, and a fuel tank were installed. To ensure reliable cooling, the vehicle received a high-efficiency 3-row radiator, along with a replacement water pump and hoses.
The electrical system was upgraded with a 123 electronic distributor and features a rebuilt alternator and starter, as well as a modern AGM battery. The four-speed automatic transmission and torque converter were professionally rebuilt by Sun Valley Transmissions.
This 280SL comes with a comprehensive set of documentation including the original window sticker, owner’s manual, Mercedes-Benz data card, restoration receipts, and multiple binders with photo albums documenting the restoration and its impressive 50 years of previous ownership.
Additional included items add to the ownership experience: original headlights, three spare factory keys, a factory tool roll, jack, spare tire, a hardtop stand, and various original parts preserved during the refurbishment.
With its meticulous restoration, extensive documentation, and carefully retained original equipment, this 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SL represents a rare and desirable example of the iconic W113 series, ready for a discerning collector or enthusiast to enjoy.
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