Beschreibung:

The Mercedes-Benz W113 roadsters, designed by Paul Bracq, were produced from 1963 through to 1971 with their distinctive 'pagoda' hardtop roof giving them their contemporary nick-name. All models feature an inline six-cylinder engine with multi-port fuel injection using a mechanical pump system adapted from the diesel engine. All are rear-wheel drive and are equipped with independent rear suspension, a feature that greatly improved road handling. It made its debut at the prestigious Geneva Motor Show in March 1963 where Technical Director Fritz Nallinger introduced it as follows, "It was our aim to create a very safe and fast sports car with high performance which, despite its sports characteristics, provides a high degree of travelling comfort." Mercedes-Benz Chief Engineer Rudolf Uhlenhaut, who was as competent behind the wheel as most racing drivers, demonstrated the capabilities of the 230SL on a tight short race track near Montreux in 1963 where he put up a best lap time of 47.5 seconds and, incidentally, out-performed Mike Parkes in his Ferrari 250GT. A classic car can often be a costly enterprise to look after so it is always preferable to find one where someone else has undergone the associated expenses. This classic example of the Mercedes-Benz 'Pagoda' certainly falls into this category. La Riche Automobiles, specialists based in the Channel Islands, have spent over £22,000 alone with a further 60-plus individual invoices stretching back to its time in Germany. This righthand drive configured car is presented in black with a matching black Pagoda top and mushroom M-Tex interior; the overall condition is good throughout. The engine starts promptly and the manual four-speed gearbox operates cleanly. The mohair hood is in similar condition and rises easily into position. The period-style modern Becker radio (compatible with digital media) is still in situ and the rear bench trim, transmission tunnel and footwells all sport the correct core-style matting. A well looked-after and good-looking 230SL in an attractive colour combination. What's not to like