MERCEDES-BENZ 230 SL “PAGODA” – 1965
Italian original, first registration black plates – Only 4 previous owners – ASI “Targa Oro” and FIVA certified
This exceptionally rare 1965 Mercedes-Benz 230 SL “Pagoda” is possibly the only known example worldwide to have spent its entire life in the same city, Bassano del Grappa (Italy), with just four documented owners since new.
Fascinating and fully documented history
Registered on February 17, 1965, this car still retains its original black license plates from Vicenza and the first registration document with the green Italian logbook — a rare historical survivor.
- First owner: resident of Bassano del Grappa, kept the car for several decades.
- Second owner: a local lady.
- Third owner (1998): a renowned local collector, who immediately registered the car with ASI and began a conservative restoration of the paintwork and interior, carefully preserving originality (fully documented with photographs).
- In 2000, the car received the prestigious ASI Targa Oro certification.
- In 2002, it was added to the AAVS National Historic Register.
- In 2003, it was issued a FIVA Identity Card for international historic events.
- In 2006, the fourth and current owner (also from Bassano del Grappa) continued to preserve the car meticulously, performing all mandatory inspections and documented maintenance.
Factory-original color combination
This car features a rare and elegant factory color combination:
- Body: Mercedes White
- Interior: Light Blue Leather
- Soft Top: Dark Blue Fabric
A truly unique configuration that enhances the timeless elegance of the W113 design by Paul Bracq.
Technical Specifications
- Engine: Inline 6-cylinder, naturally aspirated
- Displacement: 2,306 cc
- Power: 150 hp at 5,500 rpm
- Transmission: 4-speed manual
- Drive: Rear-wheel drive
- Brakes: Front disc / rear drum
- Top speed: approx. 200 km/h
- 0–100 km/h: approx. 9.0 seconds
- Curb weight: approx. 1,290 kg
Built on the innovative W113 chassis, the Pagoda offered excellent handling, a strong structure, and the iconic concave hardtop, which gave the car its nickname and added to passive safety.
Exceptional preservation
Despite showing some minor signs of age, this car retains an extraordinary level of originality:
- Original body panels
- Partially preserved interior
- Regularly maintained mechanicals
- Full and continuous documentation
- Always garage-kept
An authentic and highly collectible example, rare to find in such original condition and with such a consistent Italian ownership history — a true gem for discerning collectors.
