1963 Mercedes-Benz 230 SL premiere in Geneva
The 230 SL, 250 SL and 280 SL models are coveted Mercedes classics. This is shown, among other things, by the prices for well-preserved examples of the W 113 series: Classic Data’s current market survey for 2022/2023 quotes €128,000 for the 230 SL in top condition (grade 1) and €156,000 for the 280 SL. Many owners of a “Pagoda” SL are customers of the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center in Fellbach, with its unique expertise in all aspects of the brand’s high-quality classic cars.
Pioneering vehicle safety for sports cars
In 1963, the 230 SL impressed as a comfortable, two-seater touring car with high performance. Its design was created under the direction of Friedrich Geiger. It combined clean lines with the classic SL look including a large central star in the radiator grille. The optional hardtop evoked an association: Its inwardly curved roof surface was reminiscent of Asian temple buildings. This gave the sports car the nickname “Pagoda”. Paul Bracq designed the removable coupé roof.
The safety level of the W 113 was groundbreaking for sports cars of the time. The frame floor system of the 230 SL originated from the Mercedes-Benz saloons of the W 111 series. It was shortened and reinforced compared to the four-door models. In 1959, the “Fintail” was the world’s first passenger car with a safety body, developed by Mercedes-Benz safety pioneer Béla Barényi. The “Pagoda” was the first sports car to benefit from the principle of a stable passenger cell with front and rear crumple zones. Added to this was the high level of driving safety of the chassis adopted from the saloon.
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