When the Mercedes-Benz Pagoda W113 debuted in 1963, it was tasked with a significant mission: to shape the future of Mercedes-Benz’s prestigious luxury and sports car division. Building upon the triumph of the 190 SL in the American market and the iconic status of the ‘Gullwing’, the W113 Pagoda was expected to usher in a new era for the Super Leicht roadster. It successfully captivated not only the baby boomers in the United States but also expanded its appeal to European buyers, broadening its ownership across the continent for the first time since the SL designation emerged nine years prior.
The W113 Pagoda distinguished itself from its predecessors with sharp, Germanic lines – a design language that would influence Mercedes-Benz for the next half-century. It also stood apart from contemporary luxury convertibles. While British, Italian, and American manufacturers still favored curvaceous, feminine-inspired designs characteristic of the swinging sixties, the Pagoda presented a more angular and modern aesthetic. This visual uniqueness, combined with its spacious interior, versatility, and sporting capabilities, cemented the W113 Pagoda’s enduring popularity throughout the decade.
In 2023, the Mercedes Pagoda W113’s value is soaring. Original and professionally restored models often command prices exceeding £200,000, with exceptionally rare examples surpassing the £250,000 mark. This price surge has sparked considerable interest among car enthusiasts and collectors globally, all seeking an opportunity to own, enjoy, or invest in a Mercedes W113 Pagoda. The rise of online auction platforms adds another layer of complexity, where skillfully enhanced photographs, compelling descriptions, and the pressure of a countdown timer can lead buyers into purchasing restoration projects that may be more extensive than initially anticipated. Therefore, a comprehensive buyer’s guide to the Mercedes W113 Pagoda is now more crucial than ever.
For those interested in acquiring this iconic model, understanding the nuances of the three variants is essential. You can explore detailed information on each variant through these links:
230 SL | 250 SL | 280 SL
Key Areas to Inspect When Buying a Mercedes W113 Pagoda SL
Surface Condition: The First Impression
The exterior surface of a Mercedes Pagoda W113 is the first thing you’ll notice. While a gleaming paint job can be enticing, it’s crucial to look beyond the surface. Carefully inspect for any signs of rust, imperfections in the paint, and uneven panel gaps. These could indicate previous repairs or underlying corrosion issues.
Peeling Back the Layers: Identifying Hidden Issues
Don’t be deceived by a flawless exterior. A thorough inspection involves looking beyond the surface and assessing the underlying structure. Pay close attention to areas prone to rust, such as wheel arches, door sills, and around headlights. Use a magnet to check for excessive filler, which can conceal significant corrosion.
Extensive Restoration: Recognizing a Project Car
Be prepared to identify projects that require comprehensive restoration. Cars with advanced rust may necessitate extensive panel replacement, which is both costly and labor-intensive. Expertise and time are crucial for properly reviving a classic Mercedes W113 Pagoda.
Rust: The Pagoda’s Achilles Heel
Rust is a significant concern for any classic car, and the Mercedes Pagoda W113 is no exception. Over the years, exposure to the elements can lead to corrosion in various areas. The image below highlights common rust-prone spots on the W113 Pagoda. As illustrated in some of our recent Pagoda restoration projects, rust can be far more extensive beneath the surface. Panel gaps can be indicators of poor restoration work, but remember that sourcing and fitting new panels is a considerable expense, as is the skilled labor required for a proper W113 Pagoda restoration.
Considering US-Spec Models: Conversion Costs
To mitigate rust concerns, some buyers explore importing rust-free examples from the United States. However, be aware that converting a US-specification Pagoda to European standards can be costly due to the necessary modifications.
American market Mercedes Pagoda W113 models differed in several aspects, including sealed-beam headlamps, rubber-tipped overriders, a lower axle ratio, headrests, side wing reflectors, and hazard warning lights. Air conditioning was also a common feature in US cars, but restoring a non-functional AC system can add to the overall cost.
US-Spec Headlights: Sealed beam headlights were a distinguishing feature of US-market Mercedes Pagoda W113 models.
US-Spec Bumper Overriders: Rubber-tipped bumper overriders are another characteristic of US-specification Mercedes-Benz Pagoda W113 vehicles.
Engine Considerations: Performance and Potential Issues
A well-maintained engine is essential for an enjoyable driving experience in a Mercedes Pagoda W113. While the 230 SL is often considered the least powerful of the range, it still offers adequate performance for relaxed cruising. Our experienced Heritage technicians have noted that many Pagoda engine issues stem from a lack of specialized knowledge in their maintenance. These engines, while robust, require a deep understanding to ensure they operate optimally.
Common engine problems across all Mercedes Pagoda W113 variants (230 SL, 250 SL, and 280 SL) include:
- Distributor Problems: Rough running and reduced performance across the rev range can indicate distributor issues, often related to vacuum leaks or condenser problems.
- Pinking (Detonation): More prevalent in the 230 SL, pinking is caused by uncontrolled fuel detonation, leading to rough running and is frequently linked to distributor malfunctions.
- Throttle Linkages: Proper synchronization is crucial. Incorrectly adjusted throttle linkages, often due to previous modifications, can lead to performance issues.
- Throttle Bodies: Worn throttle body spindles can draw in excessive air, causing erratic idling and surging revs.
- Tappets (Valve Lifters): Rattling tappets can be due to camshaft wear, worn rocker arms, adjuster issues, or simply insufficient valve clearance.
- Servo Failure: Rough idling can also be a symptom of servo failure, typically caused by air leaks.
- Oil Leaks: Common oil leak locations include the rear crankshaft seal and the rocker cover gasket, which can deteriorate over time.
- Emissions Imbalance: Pagoda engines often arrive at our workshops running either too rich or too lean, potentially caused by issues with throttle linkages, distributor timing, or leaking cold-start injectors.
Cold-Start Injector Leaks: Diagnosis
Cold-start injectors always have fuel flowing through them but should only inject fuel during cold or warm engine cranking (250 SL and 280 SL). The 230 SL is more susceptible to fuel leaks because its cold-start injector operates whenever the engine is cranking, increasing the risk of engine flooding. If a 230 SL takes a long time to start, suspect a potential cold-start injector leak and possible engine flooding.
Suspension: Ensuring Ride Comfort and Handling
Revolutionary Rear Swing Axle: Handling and Maintenance
The Mercedes Pagoda W113 inherited the swing axle design from the 190 SL, developed to improve upon the Gullwing’s handling. This rear suspension setup was used throughout the W113’s production. Common issues include:
- Gator Leaks: Leaking axle gaiters necessitate a complete axle disassembly to replace the gaiter, along with replacement of half-shaft bearings, seals, and oil. Inexperienced repairers may use stapled-together gaiters, which are prone to failure.
- Pinion Seal Leaks: Wear and tear and exposure to road debris can cause pinion seal leaks. Inspect for oil leaks beneath the rear axle.
Beyond these points, the rear axle is generally robust. Focus on checking for corrosion and replacing worn service components.
Front Suspension: Double Wishbone with King Pins
- Wear in the double wishbone and kingpin front suspension system can lead to excessive wheel movement and wandering steering. Listen for loud banging noises from the front suspension while driving.
- Front Subframe Mounts: Splitting front subframe top mounts are common, potentially causing the engine to lift and contact the hood.
- Engine Mounts: Deteriorated and flattened engine mounts can cause vibrations throughout the vehicle.
Steering Box: Precision and Maintenance
- Loose Steering and Backlash: Vague steering feel, giving a sense of lack of control, often results from steering box leaks or a worn steering box. These issues typically arise from inadequate maintenance by specialists.
Steering Box Maintenance: Key to Longevity
Regular oil and filter changes are vital for protecting the seals within the steering box. If the oil is not regularly changed, abrasive particles circulating within the box can damage its internal components.
Gearboxes: Automatic and Manual Considerations
Automatics:
- Common automatic gearbox issues include sticking gears and non-functional kick-down due to overuse.
- A loose gear selector can result from broken selector rod bushes.
Manuals (Four-Speed):
- Whining noises in manual gearboxes often indicate leaks and running dry, leading to bearing failure – a frequent issue encountered at SLSHOP.
- Similar to automatics, loose gear selectors can be caused by selector rod bush failure.
This guide provides a snapshot of potential issues to consider when purchasing a Mercedes W113 Pagoda. If buying at auction, we strongly recommend a thorough inspection by a specialist familiar with these vehicles. Be particularly vigilant for sellers attempting to conceal rust, as it remains one of the most costly problems to rectify on a Mercedes Pagoda W113.
