The Mercedes-Benz W113, marketed as the SL Coupe, represented a significant evolution in the iconic SL lineage. Specifically, the 230 SL variant, produced from March 1963 to January 1967, occupied a crucial middle ground within the range. It bridged the gap between the earlier, more spartan 190 SL and the later, more powerful 250 SL and 280 SL models. The 230 SL, with its 150 horsepower engine and automatic transmission option, aimed to deliver a blend of performance, comfort, and sophisticated styling, appealing to a broader clientele than its predecessors. It was built on the 113 chassis, known for its advanced engineering and elegant design, and remains a highly sought-after classic today.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL |
| Generation | SL Coupe (W113) |
| Type (Engine) | 230 SL (150 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | March, 1963 |
| End of production | January, 1967 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.6 kg/Hp, 115.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.6 kg/Nm, 151.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65 Hp/l |
| Torque | 196 Nm @ 4200 rpm (144.56 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 127 II / 127.981 |
| Engine displacement | 2306 cm3 (140.72 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 72.8 mm (2.87 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.8 l (11.41 US qt | 9.5 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1295 kg (2854.99 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1650 kg (3637.63 lbs.) |
| Max load | 355 kg (782.64 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 340 l (12.01 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4285 mm (168.7 in.) |
| Width | 1760 mm (69.29 in.) |
| Height | 1290 mm (50.79 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2400 mm (94.49 in.) |
| Front track | 1486 mm (58.5 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1487 mm (58.54 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 139 mm (5.47 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10 m (32.81 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 230 SL was the M127.981, a 2.3-liter inline-six cylinder engine. This engine was a refinement of the M127 series, featuring a cast iron block and an aluminum cylinder head. Crucially, it employed Bosch mechanical multi-port fuel injection – a relatively advanced feature for the time – replacing the carburetors found on earlier Mercedes-Benz models. This system significantly improved fuel efficiency and throttle response. The engine produced 150 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 144.56 lb-ft of torque at 4,200 rpm. The automatic transmission was a four-speed unit, offering smooth, if not particularly sporty, gear changes. This transmission was a key differentiator, as most SLs were equipped with manual gearboxes.
Driving Characteristics
The 230 SL automatic, while elegant and comfortable, wasn’t designed for outright performance. The automatic transmission, while convenient, did sap some of the engine’s potential. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10.2 seconds, and top speed was approximately 121 mph. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic felt noticeably slower, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. However, the automatic provided a more relaxed driving experience, making it ideal for long-distance cruising. The gear ratios were optimized for comfortable highway speeds, and the engine delivered smooth, predictable power. The steering, while not power-assisted, was relatively light and precise.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 230 SL was positioned as a premium vehicle, and even the base model came well-equipped. Standard features included leather upholstery, a wood-trimmed dashboard, and a comprehensive instrument panel. The automatic transmission was often paired with power steering and power brakes as optional extras. A Becker Mexico radio was a popular option, as were whitewall tires. Interior color combinations were extensive, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles. The overall ambiance was one of understated luxury and refinement.
Chassis & Braking
The W113 chassis was a monocoque construction, providing a strong and rigid platform. The front suspension utilized double wishbones with a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employed a trailing arm design. This setup provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The 230 SL featured disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. While adequate for the car’s performance, the drum brakes at the rear were a point of criticism, particularly when compared to the all-disc brake setups found on some contemporary sports cars. The car’s relatively low weight (around 2,855 lbs) helped to offset the limitations of the braking system.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 230 SL automatic received generally positive reviews. Critics praised its elegant styling, comfortable ride, and sophisticated features. However, the automatic transmission was often seen as a compromise, detracting from the car’s sporting potential. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic was considered less engaging to drive. The 250 SL, introduced later, offered more power and improved performance, while the 190 SL represented a more affordable entry point into the SL range. The 230 SL automatic appealed to buyers who prioritized comfort and convenience over outright performance.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz 230 SL automatic has become a highly collectible classic car. The M127 engine, while not the most powerful of its era, is known for its reliability and durability. The automatic transmission, while not as desirable as the manual, adds to the car’s unique character. Well-maintained examples command high prices in the used car market. The W113 platform, as a whole, is celebrated for its engineering excellence and timeless design, solidifying the 230 SL’s place in automotive history. Finding parts can sometimes be a challenge, but a robust aftermarket and dedicated enthusiast community ensure that these cars can be kept on the road for years to come.
