The W113 Pagoda was produced over 8 years, with three transmission options between 1963 and 1971 which included a 4-speed automatic, manual and 5-speed manual gearbox. The latter is extremely rare with circa 800 units to ever leave the factory as the ZF 5-speed was discontinued after just one year. Most W113 Pagodas are found in automatic configuration but given the high-revving nature of the M127, 129 and 130 and powerplants, a manual gearbox conversion is a fantastic way to increase driving enjoyment.

The K4C 025 and K4A 025 gearboxes are extremely reliable, but there is a whole new world of motoring offered by a manual gearbox conversion. SLSHOP opts for transplants with modern units, including 6-speed Ge-Trag transmissions. Where traditionally a W113 Pagoda manual or automatic gearbox would rev at 3500-4000 rpm when cruising at 60/70mph, the 6-speed will sit at 2500rpm at 65mph.

The high-revving engines offered with all three W113 Pagoda variants are largely untapped with the standard 4-speed automatic and manual transmissions. The uprated modern manual gearboxes allow you to unleash the rev-range, taking charge of your Pagoda for more spirited driving. The lower revs when cruising will also improve cruising quality for both the driver and passenger.

Choosing to upgrade your gearbox to either a five or six-speed transmission will transform the driving experience, extending the rev-range, offering more control over power output and enable less stress on the engine when cruising at higher speeds. In addition, it will give your vehicle a character unlike any others. With a modern five or six speed transmission, the vehicle’s character will be more akin to a sports car and is the perfect starting point to make further modifications to the performance and handling.

Altering the originality of your W113 Mercedes Pagoda is not for everyone, which we understand. But if you’re keen to enjoy your Pagoda and have something truly unique to you, look no further than this exciting modification for your W113 Pagoda.

Read about previous projects here.

Oliver is our dedicated Heritage Mercedes-Benz advisor who will work with you on a 1-2-1 basis to give your classic Mercedes-Benz the care it deserves.

In the beginning, R107 customers started bringing their 1960s cars to SLSHOP. Following this, we’ve grown into a dedicated workshop specifically for cars of this era. Here, you’ll find a wide variety of Pagodas. Of those, some are here for final touches, some for initial assessment, and everything in between. After all, every Pagoda’s needs are different. And it’s not just SLs in this workshop, either… In addition, we regularly see earlier SLs and all manner of saloons, coupes, and convertibles from this glorious era of style and statement.

So step back in time and browse our 1960s workshop here. Because who doesn’t love eyeing beautiful old cars!

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ENJOY YOUR VEHICLE WITH CONFIDENCE. PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT FOR AS LITTLE AS £55.00 PER MONTH