A beautiful right-hand drive, UK-supplied ‘Pagoda’ with known history, in exceptional condition.

 

First registered in December 1969, this is the final and most desirable iteration of the Pagoda line, with the largest 280 engine and automatic transmission.

 

The file details the history of the car from 1973 onwards, when it was supplied by Woking Motors, Walton-on-Thames (MB main dealer) and serviced by them throughout the 70s. The car remained in the South West London area in long term ownership right up until 2002, and it is noted that Roger Edwards rebuilt the engine in 1999 at 73,784 miles. From then the car was purchased by an lady in St. Albans, and in 2007 spent over a year in the ownership of motoring journalist, Martin Buckley.

From 2008, and 97k miles, the SL was owned by a gentleman in Southsea who carried out extensive renovations on the car. The inner and outer sills, floors and boot floor were replaced. The braking system was entirely overhauled, the suspension refreshed with new dampers and rear springs and the fuel injection system was rebuilt with a new pump and new injectors after carrying out a full overhaul of the cylinder head with new camshaft, valve guides and valves. Cosmetically, he detailed the engine bay and reupholstered the interior in correct Parchment MB Tex with square-weave carpeting.

In the hands of its most recent owner, the car has been subject to a complete strip down and total repaint in MB Medium Blue, changing the colour from its original Tunis Beige with Tobacco hard top. An extremely elegant colour that contrasts perfectly with the original Parchment interior.

 

Today the car records 99,572 miles, which with the car’s history is indicated to be correct. The registration number is the same it has worn since new.

 

The bodywork is in beautiful condition with superb brightwork. Notably the panel fit is excellent, and the bonnet still retains its original stamping. Nicely detailed under the bonnet. Original hard top (not pictured) in excellent condition. The wheels wear Vredestein Sprint Classic tyres all round. The interior is in immaculate condition, has coir over mats and a correct Becker Europa radio.

 

The engine starts instantly and runs very smoothly, and the car drives exceptionally well, recording perfect temperature and oil pressure. It is a real pleasure to drive such a nicely sorted example.

 

An extremely pretty car in very attractive colours that is both very well sorted and eminently usable. It is a lovely example throughout.