The SL, a Mercedes roadster icon, continues to captivate car enthusiasts after 60 years. The Pagoda, a popular model from the SL 113 series, is now as valuable as gold, with recent prices skyrocketing into the six-figure range. Despite the boost in popularity and value, just under 50,000 113s were produced, more than twice the number of its predecessor, the 190 SL.
Whether it's the dainty Pagoda or the powerful SL 63 4Matic, these Mercedes roadsters share a common thread: timeless appeal and unwavering popularity. The SL heritage is vast, and new tales are uncovered with each passing year, making it impossible to write enough about it.
Take a gander at the Pagoda, an early SL model that isn't lightweight, weighing up to 1.5 tons in its 280 SL form. Despite the hefty weight, the two-thirty makes an impressive first impression with its lively six-cylinder engine and the easy-to-operate five-speed gearbox. The car's interior features clear round instruments and a gear knob resembling a golf ball.
The modern SL, on the other hand, has evolved into a multifunctional beast suitable for everyday use. Though it's more powerful, it's also more comfortable, boasting a large display and fine materials. The latest SL version is bursting with safety and comfort features, steering with rear wheels, and compensating for rolling movements hydraulically. It also offers a moving central screen, a head-up display, full infotainment, and nine different ways to shift gears.
Nowadays, the Pagoda is a weekend car that doesn't leave you feeling the burn. On the flip side, the modern SL is a powerful luxury vehicle with 315 km/h top speed and 800 Newton meters in the mid-range. Both SL models offer unique driving experiences, with the Pagoda's classic charm and the modern SL's advanced technology and powerful performance.
So, which SL should you choose? That's a question only you can answer, as both models cater to different tastes and preferences. The Pagoda is known for its easy-to-drive character, while the modern SL excels in multifunctionality and power.
The allure of SLs has remained undiminished over the decades, making them enduring fascinations for car enthusiasts. With the Pagoda, there's a softer, classic touch, and with the modern SL, you get cutting-edge technology and unparalleled power. It's a matter of philosophy, really. And regardless of your choice, you're bound to turn heads and spark conversations.
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The classic Pagoda and the modern SL share a connection only in their names and the option of open-top driving. While the Pagoda can be driven comfortably, its limitations lie in its braking and handling. In contrast, the modern SL offers a vast array of safety and comfort features, including autonomous steering and a sleek aerodynamic design.
The Pagoda, launched in 1963, was a significant departure from the original Mercedes SL. It was an affordable alternative to the pricey 190 SL and featured a concave removable top, earning its nickname "Pagoda." The modern SL, on the other hand, has undergone numerous changes, with the R232 model bursting with safety and comfort features.
Despite their differences, the SL legacy remains strong, with original Pagodas fetching prices over €185,000 at auction, and the latest SL models starting at €127,146. With each new generation, the SL maintains its place as a coveted luxury car with a rich historical background.
