1969 Mercedes 280 SL Pagoda

by: Auto Express team

8 Aug 2012

1
Introduction
2
1955 300 SL Gullwing
3
1956 190 SL
4
1969 280 SL Pagoda - currently reading
5
1980 450 SL
6
2001 SL 500
7
2005 SL 55 AMG
8
2012 SL 500

This SL arrived off the back of the 300 SL and 190 SL, but caused a stir as it looked nothing like its predecessors.

The complicated surfacing and sensuous curves were replaced by a much simpler body shape, while a concave roof earned it the Pagoda nickname.

The 1969 280 SL we drove was equipped with a four-speed automatic gearbox, and didn’t want to be hurried along. But that wasn’t a problem when the ride was so comfortable and we were looking so damn cool.

This was the first model to confirm Mercedes’ move to a focus on comfort.

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In this review

1
IntroductionWe line up the new Mercedes SL with its forebears in an exclusive showdown
2
1955 300 SL GullwingFor any car fan, it’s a privilege to lift the surprisingly light gullwing door, climb over the wide sill and drop into the 300 SL’s low-slung seat.
3
1956 190 SLThe 190 SL was built to be a 300 SL for the masses, and is far less satisfying from behind the wheel.
4
1969 280 SL Pagoda - currently reading
5
1980 450 SLThe third-generation SL first went on sale in 1971, and it stayed in showrooms for 18 years – so if you're in the market for a cheap classic SL, this is the one to go for
6
2001 SL 500
7
2005 SL 55 AMG
8
2012 SL 500

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1969 Mercedes 280 SL Pagoda

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In this review

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