The Mercedes-Benz W113 SL, affectionately known as the “Pagoda SL,” represented a significant evolution in the iconic SL lineage. Produced from 1963 to 1971, the W113 offered a blend of luxury, performance, and sophisticated styling. The 250 SL variant, manufactured from December 1966 to January 1968, occupied a crucial middle ground within the range, bridging the gap between the entry-level 230 SL and the more powerful 280 SL. This specific configuration – the 250 SL with a 150 hp engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission – aimed to deliver a refined grand touring experience, appealing to buyers seeking a balance of performance and comfort.
The 250 SL: Positioning and Overview
The 250 SL was introduced as a replacement for the 230 SL, addressing concerns about the earlier model’s limited power. While the 280 SL offered even greater performance, it came at a higher price point. The 250 SL, therefore, found its niche as a more accessible, yet still highly desirable, option for enthusiasts. It was positioned as a sophisticated roadster, ideal for long-distance touring and weekend drives. The five-speed manual transmission was a key feature, offering drivers greater control and engagement compared to the optional automatic.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 250 SL lay the M 129.982 engine, a 2.5-liter inline-six cylinder powerplant. This engine was a significant upgrade over the 230 SL’s 2.3-liter unit, boasting increased displacement and power output. The engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operating two valves per cylinder. Crucially, the 250 SL utilized Bosch multi-port fuel injection, a relatively advanced system for the time, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and smoother power delivery. The engine produced 150 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 159.31 lb-ft of torque at 4,200 rpm. The engine was mounted longitudinally in the front of the vehicle.
The five-speed manual transmission, a fully synchronized unit, was a key differentiator for this variant. It provided precise gear changes and allowed the driver to fully exploit the engine’s power band. The transmission’s gear ratios were tailored to provide a balance of acceleration and cruising ability. First gear was relatively low for quick starts, while fifth gear was designed for comfortable high-speed highway driving. This manual gearbox was favored by driving enthusiasts who preferred a more connected driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 250 SL with the five-speed manual transmission offered a distinctly engaging driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as some contemporary roadsters, it provided a smooth and refined ride, coupled with ample power for comfortable cruising and spirited driving. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was achieved in approximately 9.2 seconds, and the car could reach a top speed of 124.27 mph. The manual transmission allowed drivers to maintain optimal engine speed for various driving conditions, enhancing both performance and fuel economy. Compared to the automatic transmission equipped 250 SL, the manual version felt more responsive and offered a greater sense of control. The 280 SL, with its larger engine, offered noticeably quicker acceleration, but at the expense of some of the 250 SL’s refined character.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 250 SL was well-equipped for its time, offering a comfortable and luxurious interior. Standard features included leather upholstery, a wood-trimmed dashboard, and a comprehensive instrument cluster. The interior design was elegant and understated, reflecting Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Optional extras included power steering, air conditioning, a radio, and a hardtop in addition to the standard soft top. The hardtop, a defining feature of the “Pagoda SL” design, provided increased security and weather protection. Interior color options were varied, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles. The standard seats were designed for comfort on long journeys, and the cabin was relatively spacious for a two-seater roadster.
Chassis & Braking
The W113 SL chassis was a robust and well-engineered structure, providing a solid foundation for the car’s performance and handling. The front suspension featured coil springs, double wishbones, and a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension utilized coil springs. This setup provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The 250 SL was equipped with disc brakes on all four wheels, offering excellent stopping power. The steering system was a cone worm with recirculation balls, providing precise and responsive steering feel. The car’s curb weight of 2,998.29 lbs contributed to its balanced handling. The 185 HR 14 tires, mounted on 6 J x 14 HB wheel rims, provided adequate grip for the car’s performance capabilities.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 250 SL was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its blend of performance, comfort, and styling. It was considered a worthy successor to the 230 SL and a compelling alternative to other luxury roadsters of the era. Critics noted the improved power output compared to the 230 SL and the refined driving experience offered by the five-speed manual transmission. Fuel economy was rated at 21 US mpg combined, which was respectable for a sports car of the 1960s. Compared to the 280 SL, the 250 SL offered a more affordable entry point into the “Pagoda SL” world, while still providing a high level of luxury and performance. Reliability was generally good, although maintenance costs could be relatively high due to the car’s sophisticated engineering.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL |
| Generation | SL (W113) |
| Type | 250 SL (150 Hp) Manual 5-speed |
| Start of production | December, 1966 |
| End of production | January, 1968 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 216 Nm @ 4200 rpm (159.31 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 129.982 |
| Engine displacement | 2496 cm3 (152.32 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 78.8 mm (3.1 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 12.9 l (13.63 US qt | 11.35 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1360 kg (2998.29 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1715 kg (3780.93 lbs.) |
| Max load | 355 kg (782.64 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space | 340 l (12.01 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 82 l (21.66 US gal | 18.04 UK gal) |
| Length | 4285 mm (168.7 in.) |
| Width | 1760 mm (69.29 in.) |
| Height | 1320 mm (51.97 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2400 mm (94.49 in.) |
| Tire size | 185 HR 14 |
| Number of gears | 5, manual transmission |
Legacy
The 250 SL, particularly the five-speed manual version, remains a highly sought-after classic car today. Its combination of elegant styling, refined performance, and relative reliability has ensured its enduring appeal. While maintenance can be costly due to the car’s age and complexity, well-maintained examples command premium prices in the collector car market. The M 129 engine, while not without its quirks, is generally considered a durable and reliable powerplant when properly cared for. The 250 SL represents a high point in Mercedes-Benz’s roadster history and continues to be cherished by enthusiasts around the world.
