The Mercedes-Benz W113, marketed as the SL “Pagoda” due to its distinctive roofline, represented a significant evolution in the SL lineage. Produced from 1963 to 1971, it succeeded the iconic 300 SL “Gullwing” and aimed to blend sporty performance with increased comfort and refinement. The 250 SL, introduced in November 1966 and produced through January 1968, occupied a middle ground within the W113 range, positioned between the earlier 230 SL and the later 280 SL. This variant, particularly when equipped with the optional five-speed manual transmission, offered a compelling combination of performance and driving engagement for the era. It was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a sophisticated grand tourer capable of both spirited driving and comfortable long-distance journeys.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL |
| Generation | SL Coupe (W113) |
| Type (Engine) | 250 SL (150 Hp) Manual 5-speed |
| Start of production | November, 1966 |
| End of production | January, 1968 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| 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, 110.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm, 158.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 216 Nm @ 4200 rpm (159.31 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 129 III / 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 |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 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 – minimum | 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 | 1295 mm (50.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2400 mm (94.49 in.) |
| Front track | 1484 mm (58.43 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| 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 | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 250 SL was powered by the M129.982 engine, a 2.5-liter inline-six cylinder engine. This engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and Bosch multi-port fuel injection, a relatively advanced system for the time. The engine produced 150 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 216 Nm (159.31 lb-ft) of torque at 4,200 rpm. The five-speed manual transmission, a desirable option, provided closer gear ratios than the standard four-speed automatic, enhancing both acceleration and engine braking. The engine’s longitudinal front-mounted layout contributed to a balanced weight distribution, improving handling characteristics. The M129 engine family was known for its robust construction and relatively straightforward maintenance, although the fuel injection system required periodic attention to ensure optimal performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 250 SL with the five-speed manual transmission offered a noticeably more engaging driving experience than its automatic counterpart. The closer gear ratios allowed the driver to keep the engine within its optimal power band, resulting in quicker acceleration and more responsive performance. While not a high-performance sports car by modern standards, the 250 SL provided ample power for comfortable cruising and spirited driving on winding roads. The steering, utilizing a cone worm and recirculation balls system, offered precise control, although it required a bit more effort than more modern rack-and-pinion setups. The suspension, featuring double wishbones at the front and a trailing arm setup at the rear, provided a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling stability.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 250 SL was generally well-equipped for its time, reflecting its positioning as a luxury grand tourer. Standard features included leather upholstery, a wood-trimmed dashboard, and power-assisted brakes. The optional five-speed manual transmission was often paired with other desirable options, such as a Nardi steering wheel and a more comprehensive instrument cluster. A factory-fitted radio was common, and air conditioning was available as an extra-cost option. Interior color schemes were typically conservative, with a focus on elegant combinations of leather and wood. The overall ambiance was one of understated luxury and refinement.
Chassis & Braking
The W113 chassis was a robust monocoque construction, providing a solid foundation for the car’s handling and safety. The 250 SL featured disc brakes on all four wheels, a significant upgrade over the drum brakes found on earlier SL models. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) was available as an option, further enhancing braking performance. The suspension system, as mentioned previously, utilized double wishbones at the front and a trailing arm setup at the rear, providing a good balance between ride comfort and handling. A transverse stabilizer bar helped to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 250 SL was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its blend of performance, comfort, and style. Compared to the earlier 230 SL, the 250 SL offered a noticeable increase in power and torque. The five-speed manual transmission was particularly lauded by enthusiasts for its improved driving experience. Compared to the automatic version, the manual offered better control and responsiveness. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for buyers of this class of vehicle, was reasonable for the time, averaging around 21 US mpg. Reliability was generally good, although the fuel injection system required periodic maintenance.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz 250 SL remains a highly sought-after classic car today. Its elegant styling, robust engineering, and engaging driving experience have ensured its enduring appeal. The five-speed manual transmission version is particularly prized by collectors. While maintenance costs can be significant due to the car’s age and complexity, the 250 SL is generally considered a reliable and rewarding classic to own. Parts availability is good, and a thriving community of enthusiasts provides support and expertise. The W113 “Pagoda” SL, and the 250 SL variant in particular, represents a high point in Mercedes-Benz engineering and design, and continues to be celebrated as a timeless classic.
