1969 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL

Few cars capture the 1960s Mercedes-Benz ideal as completely as the W113 280 SL, and this one has been returned to as-new condition through Hemmels' Neugeboren programme, completed in 2019. Every component was stripped, restored or renewed and reassembled, with the factory-style finish elevated by a polished engine and stainless exhaust. The 280 SL was the final and most refined evolution of the Pagoda, its 2.8-litre M130 straight-six bringing more torque and better drivability than the 250 SL it replaced.

The colour scheme is distinctive: Bentley Silver Lake Metallic paint over a Rolls-Royce Navy leather interior, with a light ivory steering wheel with blue centre and 14-inch chrome wheels with colour-matched caps. A blue soft top is fitted, and a body-colour removable hardtop is included with its stand. Hemmels' Engine Performance Enhancement has been added, along with undercarriage lacquer protection, a discreet audio upgrade and USB charging, so the car is easier to live with than a standard period example.

With roughly 1,000 miles covered since the restoration, it is close to a freshly built car rather than a used classic. It is a UK-supplied example, and it offers 170 bhp, a 125 mph top speed and the 4-speed automatic gearbox that suits the Pagoda's grand touring character.