Equipment & Specs
Car from a Yanase dealership, automatic transmission, air conditioning, left-hand drive
Description
Let us introduce the Mercedes-Benz 250SL.
The W113-series 230SL, which debuted in 1963, was renamed the 250SL in 1966 when its engine displacement was increased to 2.5L.
However, the 250SL was quickly replaced in 1968 by the 280SL, which featured a 2.8L engine, making the 250SL a rare model produced for only a little over two years. Consequently, production numbers were low, with only 5,196 units built—the lowest in the series.
This vehicle is a rare dealer car that was imported in Showa 42 by Western Motor Co., the official importer, and sold by Yanase. While it is impossible to know the exact number of officially imported 250SLs, I imagine there were probably fewer than 20.
The engine is an M129 inline-six, OHC, producing 150馬力. The crankshaft is supported by seven bearings, improving durability and quietness.The power is just right—more than enough. By today’s standards, the engine noise is a bit on the loud side, but it would be nonsensical to demand strict quietness from a car of this type; that said, it is by no means excessively loud. As long as you don’t neglect to change the oil regularly, this is a very tough engine, and it falls into the category of being easy to maintain.
This vehicle remains in excellent condition, with no issues whatsoever—from the fuel injection pump to the cooling system. While overheating
is a concern in the summer, an electric fan has been added as a countermeasure, ensuring it’s worry-free for the foreseeable future and ready to drive as is.
Additionally, although it’s an aftermarket addition, the car is equipped with air conditioning, making it suitable for year-round driving.
The interior features original black leather, with the inside of the hardtop in beige. The seats and other interior components are original and remain in excellent condition. The wood trim is also original and in fair condition. The air conditioner works without issue, and the climate control levers operate smoothly and are in fair condition.While I
wouldn’t call it perfect, considering it’s a 50-year-old model, the interior is, overall, beyond reproach.
The switches and levers operate precisely, showing no signs of wear from heavy use, and it’s clear the previous owner treated the car with great care.
The appeal of the W113 SL lies, above all, in its style—created by the renowned French designer Paul Black. From the uniquely shaped hardtop known as the “Pagoda roof” to its elegant and refined design, it exudes a timeless charm that continues to captivate car enthusiasts—not just Mercedes fans—even as the times change.
The product concept at the time of development focused on appealing to the affluent—including American women—to achieve commercial success with Mercedes sports cars, but the fact that its design has lost none of its appeal even after more than 50 years is this car’s greatest charm.
Removing the hardtop reveals an open-top body, but in Japan—where a conservative mindset prevails—the reality is that the roadster body is often left unused, a true waste of its potential. Of course, the fact that the hardtop is too heavy to remove by one person alone makes the process a hassle, but it is also true that enjoying the car as a convertible is one of its key attractions.
In fact, driving through the city with the top down on a sunny day with pleasant weather, then heading out to the fresh air of the suburbs, is another way to enjoy this car.
The W113 SL is characterized by its moderate size and maneuverability, which is why many owners tend to keep it for a relatively long time once they’ve acquired it.It can certainly be considered a quintessential classic Mercedes that’s perfectly suitable for everyday use.
Although it is a Mercedes sports car, its driving feel isn’t particularly sensuous, and the engine and chassis feel are closer to those of a passenger car.
However, that sense of security and solidity is precisely what defines Mercedes—it offers a unique, soothing sensation and possesses an elegant atmosphere that cannot be found in modern Mercedes models.
This vehicle was sold new in Showa 42 at the Yanase Shizuoka branch and has been cherished by two owners ever since.It still retains its original license plate from when it was new. With its preserved condition—which is quite different from that of a fully restored car—it is truly a rare and valuable vehicle.
We would love for someone who will continue to maintain it in excellent condition to take a look at this car.
