No chassis number available
The absolutely stunning Mercedes-Benz 230 SL “Pagoda” is offered fresh from its transformation into a street-sleeping supercar by Mechatronik. Founded in 1997, Mechatronik GmbH has established itself over the last 25 years as one of the foremost specialists for classic Mercedes-Benz cars. Based in Pleidelsheim, Germany, north of Stuttgart, the company has been renowned for the superlative quality of its work since the first prototype M-SL left the workshop in 1997. In particular, its expertise is in incorporating modern automotive technology in classic Mercedes-Be
nz cars that outwardly look unchanged.
In order to maintain its high-quality standards, Mechatronik has limited the number of complete assemblies to just five vehicles per year. Given the small numbers produced annually, it is not surprising to learn that the waiting list to acquire one of these special Mercedes is lengthy, with would-be purchasers not deterred by a list price, in the case of this Pagoda, of around €550,000 ($595k).
The heart of Mechatronik’s M-SL conversions is the Mercedes-Benz M113 V8 engine, either as a 4.3-liter (279 hp) or 5.0-liter (320 hp). Engines are carefully selected and checked for their suitability for the conversion; only if they meet Mechatronik’s stringent quality requirements are they approved for a complete overhaul. Only after the two-day testing procedure has been completed will the quality-control department give its final approval for the engine to be installed. The transmission used is the Mercedes-Benz 5-speed automatic (NAG1), which must meet the same quality requirements before installation. The completed cars are badged “M-SL” by Mechatronik.
In the case of this 230SL Pagoda (the donor car), it received a full restoration to the highest concours standards as well as all of Mechatronik’s upgrades to the engine, transmission and running gear. Fitted with the optional and desirable 5.0-liter AMG engine, it is fitted with a modern 5-speed automatic transmission, ABS and ASR, powerful brakes and, of course, unique comfort features like air conditioning, electric power windows, heated seats, sound and navigation system. Moreover, this example comes complete with a desirable hard top. This M-SL is finished in a lovely Midnight Blue Metallic shade over a red leather interior. Very well specified though still extremely analog, the car is presented in “as new” condition, having covered only 140 shakedown kilometers since the restoration’s completion. Needless to say, this veritable “wolf in sheep’s clothing” is immense fun to drive.
