BaT Auction: 1965 Mercedes-Benz 230SL Project at No Reserve

This 1965 Mercedes-Benz 230SL is a running project that is powered by a 2.3-liter inline-six equipped with mechanical fuel injection and paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. The car was acquired by the selling dealer in August 2020 from the previous owner, who reportedly purchased it in the 1980s and kept the car in storage in Alabama since 2006. Features include a removable Pagoda hardtop, a black convertible top, air conditioning, and black MB-Tex upholstery. This W113 project is offered at no reserve by the selling dealer on an Alabama bill of sale.

This example is finished in White (DB050) and is accompanied by a matching removable Pagoda hardtop and a black convertible top. Additional photos in the gallery below highlight the finish and trim as well as factory details such as the fender spot welds that remain on the car.

Painted 14″ steel wheels wear chrome trim rings and hubcaps with body-color centers. Michelin whitewall tires are mounted at all four corners.

The cabin is upholstered in black MB-Tex upholstery with a matching dash pad and door panels. Equipment includes a Tonmeister radio and dealer-installed Kühlmeister air conditioning. Wear is evident on the wood trim, and splits are visible on the top of the dash.

Instrumentation consists of a 140-mph speedometer, a tachometer, and a clock as well as vertical gauges for fuel level, oil pressure, and coolant temperature. Approximately 52k miles are shown on the five-digit odometer.

The 2.3-liter M127 inline-six features Bosch mechanical fuel injection and was rated at 150 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque when new. The engine will run when using starting fluid according to the seller, who notes that the fuel system requires cleaning.

Power is sent to the rear wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission. Additional photos showing the suspension, chassis, and driveline, as well as corrosion on portions of the mechanicals are presented in the gallery below.