MERCEDES BENZ SL280 PAGODA (W113)
The legendary “Pagoda” moniker is reserved for a series of Mercedes Benz roadsters, among them being the timeless SL280. An iconic successor to the SL230 and SL250, the SL280 is the last – but not least – in a line of convertible roadsters historically known for their confluence of both luxury and performance. Collectors would be remiss to not reference the Pagoda as a hallmark of classics.
 |
Restoring the 50 year old car was a long journey. The Pagoda came in Marthin’s workshop as a dilapidated husk of its former self. Most of the external body needed a major rework; parts were misaligned, corroded, and some were ultimately irreparable. The interior revealed cracked leather seatings and faded red carpets, which showed an almost human quality to its age. Regardless, the team restored the Pagoda back to its original state, including an overhaul of the engine itself. A visage of excellence, Stanley Marthin breathed life back into a beloved classic. Resources:
|
MERCEDES BENZ SL280 PAGODA (W113)
Internally referred to as W121 (BII or B2), and labeled “the design icon of the fifties” The Mercedes-Benz 190 SL was first shown in prototype at the 1954 New York Auto Show, and was available with an optional removable hardtop. The 190 SL presented an attractive, more affordable alternative to the exclusive Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, sharing its basic styling, engineering, detailing, and fully independent suspension.
Restoring the 50 year old car was a long journey. The Pagoda came in Marthin’s workshop as a dilapidated husk of its former self. Most of the external body needed a major rework; parts were misaligned, corroded, and some were ultimately irreparable. The interior revealed cracked leather seatings and faded red carpets, which showed an almost human quality to its age. Regardless, the team restored the Pagoda back to its original state, including an overhaul of the engine itself. A visage of excellence, Stanley Marthin breathed life back into a beloved classic.
Resources:
