The Mercedes-Benz 280 SL was introduced in December 1967 and continued in production until February 1971, when it was replaced by its successor, the entirely new and substantially heavier 350 SL.

Mercedes-Benz introduced the new W113 roadster chassis to replace the expensive 300 SL and affordable 190 SL of the 1950s.

It was an attractive compromise of performance and affordability, penned by designer and artist Paul Bracq, with distinctive straight fender lines that broke with tradition.

The light and airy detachable hardtop with its concave upper surface, created by reinforcing ridges running front to back on the outside edges, was the source of the Pagoda nickname.The 280 SL had a powerful 2.8-litre inline six-cylinder engine.

The bonnet, trunk lid, door skins and tonneau cover were made of aluminium to reduce weight.

The comparatively short and wide chassis, combined with an excellent suspension, powerful brakes and radial tyres gave the W 113 superb handling for its time.

The...