Lot 621 is a 230SL with a rebuilt 280SE engine. There has been more than $120,000 in updates & restoration, almost all documented. The first 14 years are unknown but with some accidents. In 1980 it was acquired by a collector, driven for a while & then garaged for 18 years. I bought it in 2000 & began restoration as a daily driver so all mechanical issues were a priority. From 2015 on it ran only as a collector car while body, paint & upholstery were redone & any older work redone right. All work was done or supervised by Rob Cairney of The Benz Friendz & his associates. Most recently Bob Fields of Bob’s Benz updated the head & tune up.
Of special note is it’s use as a radar calibration car for the RCMP in British Columbia where it reached 135 mph in 1980, some way over redline. It has a unique radiator star with the badge of the Order of the Golden Fleece as the last owner was an officer in an association of friends of the order. Having had three stars kicked out this one is on a steel strap.
Non standard items are the wonderful Pertronix electronic ignition, the superior 280SL u-joint, an old 8 track cover on the radio cutout & after market beauty rings.
Work includes:
Rebuilt 280SE engine, rebuilt transmission with newer clutch, newer u/joint, hydraulic lines updated, newer brakes, alternator, new battery, rebuilt radiator & water pump, new fuel pump & sender, high tension wires, all bearings but rear end, new Bilstrin shocks, new soft top, seat bodies rebuilt & recovered, new square weave carpet & more.
Known faults in this 54 year old car are bad tops to plastic headlight frames, a so far unrepairable short in the rear license phage light ( 4 attempts over 45 years), small chip is the newly replaced windshield, right front parking light bulb out, no radio and the usual little nicks & chips.
Located in Bremerton, WA.