A Modern Pagoda by Zolland
One of the most beautiful Mercedes-Benz models ever built is the W113, also known as the 230SL, 250SL, 280SL or even by its nickname, the Pagoda—referencing the particular shape of its hardtop.
There are two major obstacles to those who want to buy one. The few examples remaining on the market aren’t exactly cheap—one of them sold at an RM Sotheby’s auction in Monaco for 156,800 euros. However, its performance isn’t as stellar by today’s standards: its 2.8-litre, fuel-injected engine might have been pretty modern in its time, but its 180-horsepower output isn’t really sporty today. Furthermore, it rides like an old car, and lacks some of the more modern creature comforts.
- Also: 2017 Mercedes-Benz SL: More Evocative and More Refined
- Also: Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster: Responding to American Demand
Swedish designer Zolland has a solution for you. If money is no object, they will build you a very special Pagoda.
Here is how it works: they get a fifth-gen Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG and remove every single body panel from it. Then, they replace them with custom-made panels made to look like the Pagoda. The end result is a car with a classic look and 525 horsepower.
So how much is it worth? The price isn’t mentioned, but considering that a suitable used SL 63 AMG starts at $80,000, we can guess the aforementioned 280SL might be cheaper…
