Cars

The Mercedes-Benz 250 SL, produced between 1966 and 1968, belongs to the famous ‘Pagoda’ range (W113), which takes its nickname from the concave shape of its removable hardtop.

Designed to succeed the 230 SL while offering significant improvements, the 250 SL stands out for its perfect balance of comfort, performance and elegance, making it an icon of German motoring. The design of the 250 SL, by Paul Bracq, retains the clean lines and sophisticated style of the W113 series.

Its luxurious interior emphasises refinement with high-quality materials, meticulous ergonomics and clear instrumentation. It is available in three configurations: coupé, roadster and coupé with removable hardtop, offering a range of options to suit drivers’ preferences.

Under the bonnet, the Mercedes 250 SL is equipped with a 2.5-litre (2496 cc) inline six-cylinder engine developing 150 hp at 5500 rpm. This engine, more powerful than that of the 230 SL, offers higher torque and greater flexibility thanks to an increase in piston stroke. Combined with a four-speed manual gearbox (or optional four-speed automatic transmission), it delivers the smooth, enjoyable driving experience typical of grand tourers of the era. Thanks to an improved braking system, now featuring four disc brakes, the car’s safety and responsiveness are significantly enhanced.

One of the major innovations of the 250 SL was the increase in fuel tank capacity to 82 litres, compared to 65 litres for the 230 SL, offering greater range for long journeys. Its independent suspension and precise steering made it as enjoyable to drive in town as on winding roads.

A particularly rare and sought-after version of the 250 SL is the California Coupe. This special version was designed for open-top driving enthusiasts, replacing the classic soft top with a fixed hardtop and adding a rear bench seat. This unique configuration made it ideal for long, sunny drives, particularly on the west coast of the United States, hence its nickname ‘California’. Produced in smaller numbers than the other versions, it is now highly prized by collectors for its exclusivity and original design.

Production of the 250 SL ended in 1968 with the arrival of the 280 SL, which succeeded it with a more powerful engine. However, thanks to its rarity and perfect balance between sportiness and comfort, the 250 SL remains a highly sought-after model among collectors.

With its timeless design, controlled performance and understated luxury, the Mercedes 250 SL Pagoda remains a benchmark among prestige convertibles and a symbol of German automotive refinement.

This example, a 250SL California, is therefore a version equipped only with a hardtop. It can be discovered, but does not have a soft top. It is in good condition, both mechanically and in terms of bodywork. There is no corrosion.

Service history (5/2025):

• new brake calipers
• new brake servo
• new clutch master cylinder and slave cylinder
• new front shock absorbers
• front end overhaul
• new bearings
• oil change/filters/…
• …