Production of the 230 SL commenced in June 1963 and ended in January 1967 with 19,831 produced. Its chassis was based on the W111 saloon platform, with a reduced wheelbase of 11.8 in. The dual-circuit brake system had front disc brakes and power-assisted rear drum brakes. The 230 SL was offered with a 4-speed manual transmission, or an optional, very responsive fluid coupled (no torque converter) 4-speed automatic transmission. From May 1966, the ZF S5-20 5-speed manual transmission was available as an additional option. The 2,308 cc M127.II inline-six engine with 150 bhp and 145 lb/ft torque was based on Mercedes-Benz' M180 inline-six with mechanical Bosch multi-port fuel injection.

The vendor purchased this exceptionally solid and non-corroded vehicle as a restoration project.

Approximately 8 years ago the car was taken off the road, and since has had a sympathetic and highly detailed restoration has taken place. The vendor took the whole vehicle apart and renewed virtually every part. The engine was taken out, rebuilt and detailed, including a new clutch, the heads were all taken off and polished, and all brass work detailed. New bulkhead covers and engine underlay have been fitted, so the engine bay is very impressive indeed. The car was also given a full service. The steering wheel has been professionally restored, as has all the chrome. The hood is lovely, as is the hardtop, and again has been restored.

The interior has been retrimmed and restored, and the bodywork has been taken back to a bare shell and been fully repainted. Hundreds of hours have been invested to make this a show condition Pagoda.

The vendor has spent an enormous amount of money on the vehicle since purchase with 100s of hours invested. Surely one of the very examples available today.