Estimated Price: £140,000 - £160,000

The Mercedes-Benz 280 SL (W113) is widely regarded as one of the most elegant and usable classic sports cars of its era, combining Paul Bracq’s timeless design with robust engineering and refined road manners. By 1970, the 280 SL represented the final and most developed iteration of the W113 series, benefitting from the torquier 2.8-litre straight-six and improved drivability, making it the most sought-after variant among collectors today.

However, what truly sets this particular example apart is its exceptionally rare factory ZF 5-speed manual gearbox. While the majority of 280 SLs were specified with either the standard 4-speed manual or automatic transmission, a very small number were optioned with the ZF S5-20 5-speed unit. This gearbox was an expensive and relatively complex option at the time, resulting in extremely limited uptake. It is widely accepted that just 88 examples of the 280 SL were produced with this 5-speed transmission, of which only 35 were right-hand drive. Consequently, surviving RHD 5-speed cars are regarded as some of the rarest and most desirable of all Pagodas, offering a more engaging driving experience whilst retaining the model’s inherent refinement.

The rarity of the ZF gearbox is further amplified by its short production window. Introduced late in the W113 lifecycle, it was available only for a brief period before production of the Pagoda ceased in 1971. Its complexity and cost meant that Mercedes-Benz did not widely promote it, and many buyers continued to favour the automatic transmission, particularly in key export markets. Today, the presence of the original ZF 5-speed is considered a highly significant and value-enhancing feature among knowledgeable enthusiasts.

This example has been in the care of its current custodian for approximately 16 years and, during that time, has been the subject of a comprehensive and carefully considered restoration. In 2020, the car was entrusted to respected marque specialist O'Keeffe Coach Trimming Services, led by Kevin O’Keeffe, for a complete refurbishment. The restoration was undertaken with the body, trim and brightwork fully dismantled and refinished, ensuring a consistent and high-quality result throughout.

Originally finished in Moss Green with a black leather interior, the car was refinished during restoration in the elegant and period-correct Mercedes-Benz Beige Grey Metallic (728H), complemented by a Parchment interior. The change in colour has been carried out to a high standard and suits the Pagoda’s understated lines particularly well, offering a sophisticated and timeless aesthetic.

Mechanically, the car has benefitted from significant recent investment. In 2023, and approximately 2,000 miles ago, the engine was comprehensively rebuilt by O’Keeffe Coach Trimming in conjunction with renowned Mercedes-Benz specialist Roger Edwards Motors. This restoration work, at a cost of around £80,000, was completed in preparation for a European touring trip, and the car is understood to perform accordingly, offering the smooth and capable driving experience for which the model is known and required by our knowledgeable vendor.

Further enhancements include the installation of a high-quality Becker 7948 head unit paired with a discreet, custom audio system developed by Hub Car Audio, similar to those used in Mechatronik builds. Costing around £5,000, the system has been carefully integrated to preserve the car’s original appearance whilst providing modern functionality.

The combination of its rare factory ZF 5-speed gearbox, right-hand drive configuration and comprehensive restoration places this Pagoda in a particularly exclusive category. With only a handful of comparable examples believed to exist, it represents a compelling opportunity for collectors seeking one of the most unusual and engaging variants of the W113.

Offered in superb restored condition with recent mechanical works and long-term ownership, this 280 SL stands as a fine example of a rare specification Pagoda, equally suited to continued enjoyment on the road or inclusion within a significant collection.