1969 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL

The 280 SL is the largest-engined and most accomplished of the three W113 Pagoda variants, and this 1969 example sits at a different level again — it has been through Hemmels' flagship Neugeboren programme, a full bare-metal restoration completed in 2019 that involves stripping the car to individual components and rebuilding to a standard that surpasses factory original. Under 1,000 miles have been covered since, and the car presents accordingly: Bentley Silver Lake Metallic over a Rolls-Royce Navy Leather interior, light ivory steering wheel with blue centre, and a colour-matched removable hardtop with its own stand included alongside the blue soft top.

The M130 2.8-litre straight-six carries Hemmels' own engine performance enhancement alongside polished exhaust manifolds and a stainless exhaust system — visually and mechanically a step beyond a standard restoration. Modern usability is addressed through a refined audio upgrade and USB charging, integrated without compromising the cabin's period character. The 14-inch chrome wheels wear colour-matched caps, and the undercarriage has been lacquer-protected as part of the restoration scope.

UK-supplied from new, this is a Pagoda that can be driven with confidence rather than preserved in anxiety. The combination of Hemmels provenance, a bespoke colour pairing not found on any standard 280 SL, and fewer than 1,000 post-restoration miles makes it a compelling proposition for the serious W113 collector.