1966 Mercedes 230SL

When Mercedes Benz decided to replace its venerable but underpowered 190 SL, it designed an entirely new car: the 230 SL. Powered by a fuel-injected engine and refreshing new styling, the "pagoda" top 230 SL became an instant success that guaranteed it would become a classic. Today, the 230 SL is considered by many to be one of the finest touring sports cars made.

Our Mercedes 230 SL is a car that you can jump in, turn the key and start out on a day’s cruising excursion with the wind in your hair and the deep resonance of the sporty exhaust in your ears. Not a show car—nor bearing the price of one—this is a car to enjoy now and slowly improve the interior cosmetics as time and inclination allow.

This SL is finished in a rich Mercedes’ cream paint that glistens in the sun and says: "look at me". The paint is in good condition with no evidence of repair but a couple of small touch-ups that blend in quite well. The chrome is nice on the car, shining brightly and accenting the richness of the cream color. The black interior is in nice condition with no rips or tears, but has a small puncture in the passenger seat that is barely noticeable. The carpet is worn and is one of those cosmetic tasks that the owner will want to undertake at his/her leisure. Likewise the wood trim on the top of the dash should be replaced at some point with one of the aftermarket kits that are available.

The car starts right up and runs strong, moving this SL briskly away from lights and down the road. The automatic transmission shifts properly and, when pressed, allows for higher RPM shifts when performance is demanded. At the same time, the exhaust note reminds the driver of the fact that this was "the" Mercedes sports car of the Sixties. Power steering and power brakes make driving seem effortless, but in true Mercedes fashion do not distract from the driving experience.

The black convertible top is in good condition with a clear rear window, and is simple to operate. On these SLs, the top disappears into a hard boot and becomes invisible. The car also has the pagoda-style hardtop that is painted the same cream color as the body.

While not entirely "rust free", the body is in remarkably good condition with the only evidence of body filler being in one small area by the right headlight. The underside of the car has virtually perfect floor pans, with the only signs of rust being on the front transverse member, the bottom of the front right wheel well, and the back of both inner rockers.

The instruments in the car work properly (speedometer, tachometer, etc.) as does the safety equipment (turn signals, horn, wipers, etc.). The radio, which appears to be original to the car is not working and neither is the clock.

This MB 230 SL is defined by three words: fun, Fun and more FUN. This is a car that looks great, drives well, and is ready to be enjoyed—and at a price that won’t knock your socks off! Look at the pictures and then come by and see it.