The 1964 Mercedes-Benz 230SL introduced the world to the “Pagoda” era, a design language that combined Paul Bracq’s crisp lines with innovative safety cell construction. This specific early W113 example stands out as a highly documented survivor, boasting a dossier of records, journals, and photos that trace its history from 1967 to the present. Finished in timeless White over Medium Red leather, it retains its matching-numbers 2.3-liter engine and mechanical fuel injection system. As it prepares for the Houston 2026 auction, this Houston-based car represents a rare intersection of European elegance and documented American ownership history.
Classic Pagoda Silhouette and Dual Top Versatility
The exterior of this 1964 Mercedes-Benz 230SL is finished in its factory-correct White (Code 050), highlighting the delicate balance of chrome and glass that defines the W113. Its signature removable hardtop gives the car its “Pagoda” nickname, while a Black soft top provides weather protection for spontaneous open-air motoring. The car sits gracefully on color-matched wheels with polished hubcaps and period-correct whitewall tires. Every detail, from the upright Bosch headlights to the slender bumpers, reflects a level of preservation that honors the car’s early production sequence, specifically chassis number 000310.
Medium Red Leather and Becker Audio Heritage
Inside the cabin, the Medium Red (Code 203) leather interior offers a vibrant and luxurious contrast to the stark White bodywork. The cockpit is an exercise in mid-century ergonomic clarity, featuring a large-diameter steering wheel and a pair of vertically stacked gauges. A period-correct Becker radio remains in the dashboard, alongside the original switchgear and wood trim accents. This interior has been carefully maintained to preserve its tactile quality, while the trunk remains fully equipped with the original spare tire, jack, and emergency equipment, further proving the car’s completeness.
Matching Numbers Inline Six and Manual Engagement
Motivation is provided by the matching-numbers 2.3-liter inline 6-cylinder engine, which utilizes a sophisticated mechanical fuel injection system for precise power delivery. This powerplant is paired with a desirable 4-speed manual transmission, offering a level of driver engagement that is often missing from the more common automatic variants. The engine, bearing number 000330, provides a smooth and rev-happy character that remains the hallmark of the 230SL series. On the road, the car delivers a sophisticated and stable ride, proving why the W113 was the preferred grand tourer for the international elite of the 1960s.
Technical Specifications
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.3L Inline-6 (Matching Numbers) |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Manual |
| Fueling | Mechanical Fuel Injection |
| Chassis Number | 113 042 10 000310 |
| Exterior Color | White (Code 050) |
| Interior Color | Medium Red (Code 203) |
Market Provenance and Collector Value
In the current collector market, the 230SL is prized for being the purest mechanical expression of the W113 family, often outperforming the later 250SL in terms of engine responsiveness. This car’s value is significantly bolstered by its extensive dossier of records and the presence of the original Mercedes-Benz Data Card. While rivals like the Jaguar E-Type or Porsche 911 offer different performance profiles, the SL provides a unique combination of reliability and timeless class. An early production 4-speed manual example with documented history is increasingly difficult to find, making this a blue-chip candidate for a serious Mercedes-Benz collection.
A Documented Piece of Mercedes Benz History
This 1964 Mercedes-Benz 230SL is a remarkable survivor that offers more than just a beautiful aesthetic; it provides a transparent window into its nearly 60-year lifespan. From the rumble of its fuel-injected straight-six to the scent of its original red leather, every aspect of this car feels authentic and storied. It represents a turn-key opportunity for an enthusiast to own one of the most celebrated designs in automotive history. For the collector who values documentation and mechanical integrity, this early Pagoda is an absolute must-see during the Houston auction event.
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Source: mecum.com
