The 1967 Mercedes-Benz 250SL Pagoda stands as a testament to timeless design and sophisticated engineering, bridging the gap between the legendary 300SL and the accessible 190SL. This two-seat sports car, part of the W113 series, debuted at the 1963 Geneva Motor Show and quickly became a symbol of style and performance. Its enduring appeal and status as a true masterpiece have cemented its place in automotive history, with nearly 49,000 units sold over its nine-year production run.
The Enduring Legacy of the Pagoda SL
The Mercedes-Benz W113, affectionately nicknamed “Pagoda” due to its distinctive concave hardtop designed by Bela Barenyi, was the brainchild of a team of engineering and design luminaries. Under the guidance of Friedrich Geiger, Paul Bracq penned the elegant lines of the body, while legendary Chief Engineer Rudolf Uhlenhaut and Technical Director Fritz Nallinger engineered the chassis. This collaboration resulted in a vehicle that was not only beautiful but also technologically advanced for its time. The “Pagoda” moniker itself, derived from the hardtop’s resemblance to Asian pagoda roofs, became synonymous with this iconic model, highlighting its unique and instantly recognizable silhouette. Its design has aged gracefully, proving its timelessness and continuing to captivate enthusiasts worldwide.
Engineering Excellence Beneath the Surface
Beneath its stylish exterior, the 1967 Mercedes-Benz 250SL Pagoda inherited its robust chassis from the W111 sedan, enhanced for sporty performance. The car featured independent front suspension and a sophisticated, patented low-pivot swing-axle rear suspension, ensuring remarkable handling and stability. Powerful servo-assisted disc brakes on all four wheels provided confident stopping power. Mercedes-Benz employed lightweight materials, crafting the hood, trunk lid, doors, and tonneau cover from aluminum, contributing to a svelte weight of around 2900 lbs for a luxury grand tourer. At the heart of the 250SL was a virtually indestructible, fuel-injected SOHC inline-6 engine, decades ahead of its competitors in terms of technology and refinement. This engine delivered smooth power and impressive reliability, hallmarks of Mercedes-Benz engineering. The 250SL, produced for a brief period from December 1966 to January 1968, was specifically tuned to deliver 150bhp from its 2496cc displacement. This iteration offered a noticeable improvement in performance thanks to increased torque and a broader powerband, making it particularly enjoyable to drive in various conditions.
The Allure of a 1967 Mercedes-Benz 250SL
The 250SL model year represents a sweet spot within the W113 Pagoda range, combining refined aesthetics with enhanced performance. A particularly stunning 1967 Mercedes-Benz 250SL example showcases an exceptionally appealing light metallic green exterior paired with a tan interior, a color combination that exudes classic elegance. This particular car has undergone a meticulous, photo-documented restoration, ensuring its presentation in top condition. It is further enhanced by desirable features including a sought-after 4-speed manual gearbox, offering a more engaging driving experience for purists. Adding to its rarity and touring appeal, the hardtop has been updated with a period-correct, dealer-installed Webasto sliding sunroof, a highly uncommon option. For extended journeys, this 250SL is equipped with a Becker Grand Prix ‘LMKU’ radio and a custom-made three-piece fitted luggage set, blending vintage charm with practical touring amenities.
Fresh from its comprehensive restoration, this 1967 Mercedes-Benz 250SL exhibits exceptional attention to detail, with authentic decals, finishes, and fittings meticulously replicated both inside and out. The accompanying Mercedes-Benz data card verifies its originality as a manual transmission-equipped vehicle, retaining its original, numbers-matching M129 inline six-cylinder engine. This Pagoda SL, with its rare manual gearbox, is equally well-suited for prestigious rallies like the Copperstate 1000, leisurely weekend drives, or display on manicured concours lawns. It represents a remarkable opportunity to own a beautifully restored and highly desirable example of the 1967 Mercedes-Benz 250SL, a true automotive icon.
