Description
Mercedes-Benz 230 SL | 1964
Highlights:
– Iconic ‘Pagoda’ body style
– Fitted with power steering and front disc brakes
– Automatic transmission
– Presentable condition
– Ten years of dry storage and fair-weather use
The seller offers for sale this 1964 Mercedes-Benz 230 SL, a W113-series convertible popularly known as the “Pagoda” due to its concave hardtop design. Powered by a 2.3-litre inline-six engine and equipped with an automatic gearbox, this car combines 1960s engineering with elegant open-top motoring.
The 230 SL was developed as a comfortable yet capable roadster, blending Mercedes-Benz’s luxury credentials with a more dynamic driving experience than its predecessors. This example has been in the seller’s possession for the past decade and used primarily for leisure drives in good weather. It has been garage-kept throughout that period and was reportedly always reliable.
While the odometer shows 75,000 km, this mileage is not documented. The car is fitted with several practical features, including power steering and front disc brakes, which make it more usable in modern traffic conditions. The paintwork is good, with small imperfections and small areas showing signs of previous touch-up.
Inside, the SL presents with signs of use consistent with age. The leather seats are still in good shape, and the carpeting and dashboard are considered fair. Some trim, such as the door panels, could benefit from light restoration, and the heater is currently not functioning. These items do not detract from the car’s usability but may require attention from a future owner.
Mechanically, the car is described as operational.
The Mercedes-Benz 230 SL made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show in 1963, replacing both the 190 SL and the more powerful 300 SL. Designed by Paul Bracq and Béla Barényi, the W113 SL was the first sports car to feature a rigid passenger cell with front and rear crumple zones—ushering in a new era of automotive safety.
Fitted with Bosch mechanical fuel injection and producing around 150 horsepower, the 230 SL offered a good blend of performance and sophistication. While not a sports car in the traditional sense, it could comfortably cruise at motorway speeds and had reassuring handling thanks to its independent rear suspension.
The W113 was produced from 1963 to 1971, with the 230 SL making up the first phase of production until 1967. Despite being the earliest model in the series, the 230 SL is increasingly sought after by collectors for its cleaner lines, simpler features, and more direct driving feel compared to the later 250 SL and 280 SL variants.
With its timeless design, reliable inline-six engine, and reputation for quality, the 230 SL has earned its place as one of the most iconic convertibles of the 1960s. Today, it remains a favourite among collectors and enthusiasts alike for its balanced character—sporty enough to be entertaining, yet refined enough for grand touring.
This example offers an honest, usable presentation that retains many original features while allowing room for light cosmetic improvements. It could appeal to someone looking for a weekend classic with the potential for further cosmetic refinement over time.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
3. Good: Shows typical wear; may require some repairs or part replacements.
Technical Condition
3. Good: Generally reliable, but may need some maintenance or repairs.
Overall Condition
3. Good Condition: May need some mechanical and cosmetic repairs, but can drive.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Noord-Brabant province, the Netherlands.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Dutch registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
