1971 Mercedes-Benz W113 280 SL with Cognac MB Tex (8008)

1971 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL (W113) 

Sand Beige Metallic (467) with Cognac MB Tex (8008) and a Black Soft Top (9001)

Uncovering the history of a W113 Pagoda is almost as exciting as inspecting the physical thing itself. A carefully documented history file builds a story around a Pagoda and reminds enthusiasts why preserving and enjoying these vehicles is such an important opportunity to undertake. The Sand Beige Metallic 280 SL you see here arrived in the UK just as the R107 SL was to take the reins of the SL reputation. Delivered to Northampton on the 16^th of March 1971, this Pagoda was to live a rich life of usage by a famed jockey’s wife, residing in Banbury up until the 2000s.

Hennesy Gold Cup winner, Derek Ancil, ordered this 280 SL for his wife following a successful career as a trainee jockey, as well as the fortunate circumstance of inheriting his trainer’s (Ronald Horton) extensive art collection. Ancil’s wealth enabled him to make the purchase of this Pagoda, which went on to be used by his wife until her death at the age of 85. From the service history, it is clear that the 280 SL was well-loved, covering 21,000 miles in its first year on the roads.

After her death, the car was mothballed in a barn for at least 10 years, before moving into the hands of a friend of the family estate, who spent some time looking for a suitable restoration expert. The friend found a Rolls Royce specialist to re-commission the vehicle, making it roadworthy for the next owner. It was then purchased by the current owner’s father in 2009 who elected to restore it to its current condition. All the bodywork was stripped to bare metal and repainted; with the chrome replaced, the engine refurbished and a new soft top fitted. The interior was left completely original other than receiving a complete deep clean. The car was completed by March 2010 and prepared for European travel and club events.

Accompanying the vehicle is a comprehensive folder detailing the works carried out since the current owner’s acquisition – all the invoices detailing servicing and restoration work are available to inspect. We advise you to book an appointment with our Sales Team to enjoy a thorough inspection of the car and documentation over a coffee. Interested parties should be reassured that this 280 SL has been local to SLSHOP over the past 10 years and has been serviced by our technicians and also received a valuation in 2010 for £50,000. Of course, it goes without saying that an updated valuation is recommended.

This is a 280 SL finished in an unusual metallic paint and with a rich history of usage and extensive restoration work. We hope that the new owner will take inspiration from the initial owner and enjoy the grand touring traits of this Pagoda.

This Mercedes-Benz has been hand-picked by SLSHOP’s sales team due to its high calibre status. Every inch of this vehicle’s exterior, interior and mechanicals have been inspected by SLSHOP’s workshops to ensure the vehicle meets our world leading standards. While every effort has been made to offer pristine vehicles, there will be some age-related marks, unless otherwise stated.

We advise interested parties to join us for a coffee to peruse the documentation accompanying this vehicle. There are servicing records and invoices, MOT and tax records dating back many years and as such must be viewed in person.