restoration
Before and After: Mercedes-Benz 280SL Pagoda
We review the spectacular transformation of a 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280SL Pagoda that arrived at Gredos Garage in a state of neglect and was reborn as a collector's jewel.
8 min read
The Mercedes-Benz 280SL W113, universally known as the "Pagoda" after the shape of its removable hardtop, is one of the most coveted classics on the market. When this 1970 example arrived at Gredos Garage, it had been standing in a garage for more than fifteen years. The transformation we achieved was spectacular.
Condition on Arrival
The vehicle was in worrying condition: paint lifting in multiple areas, rust perforating the boot floor and sills, a completely deteriorated interior with cracked leather and mouldy carpets, an engine seized through lack of use and tyres turned to petrified rubber. However, the main structure was sound and the car was complete, making restoration viable.
Strip-Down and Assessment
After a full strip-down we assessed every component. We classified parts into three categories: restorable, replaceable with new old stock (NOS) originals, and custom-manufacturable. More than 70 per cent of the original parts could be saved.
Bodywork: From Rust to Lustre
Rusted panels were cut out and welded with new sheet metal of the same thickness. Body preparation took over 300 hours. Paint was applied in the original Horizon Blue (code DB 355), sprayed in a two-stage system with ceramic clear coat. The Pagoda hardtop was restored separately, including new weather seals.
Mechanicals and Engine
The 2.8-litre M130 engine with Bosch mechanical fuel injection was completely rebuilt. We replaced liners, overhauled the injection pump and renewed all block hardware. The four-speed automatic gearbox was serviced with a new gasket and friction-disc kit. The result: a silk-smooth engine that starts on the first turn of the key.
Interior and Trim
The interior was re-trimmed in cream MB-Tex, faithful to the original specification. The dashboard wood was restored by a specialist cabinet maker and the carpeting replaced with an original Mercedes-Benz Classic piece. Every chrome part was sent for re-plating.
The Result
From an abandoned car to a piece valued at over €120,000. This 280SL Pagoda is now the star of its owner's collection and has been awarded at two concours d'elegance events. At Gredos Garage, every project is a challenge we embrace with passion.