Engine: All alloy SOHC 12 valve straight 6, 2778cc
Fuel system: Bosch 6-plunger Mechanical Injection
Power output: 180bhp @ 5600rpm
Max speed: 121mph
Acceleration 0-60 mph: 10.0 sec
Weight: 1420 Kg

The history of SL cars begins with the classic Mercedes 300 SL. Its origins were in the Mercedes race cars of the early 1950's. Known as the Gullwing, when the two doors were swung up along the roof line, the open doors took on the appearance of a seagull in flight. SL originally stood for the German "Sehr Leicht" (Very Light) but when later cars were brought to market, they were referred to as “Sport Leicht" (Sport light) since they were quite, but not "very" light.

The 300 SL public production car was introduced (along with the smaller 190SL) at the New York Motor Show in 1954. The 300 SL was a Coupe only, and the smaller 190 SL Roadster was a soft top convertible with a removable hardtop. The 190 SL was fitted with a four cylinder inline engine with a capacity of 1.9litres. In 1957, Mercedes Benz introduced a Roadster version of the Gullwing 300SL with conventional doors. The 300 SL Roadster, like its Gullwing inspiration, was also a low production car with only about 1,900 cars made between 1957 and 1963.

In 1964 the 230 SL was introduced. Designed by Paul Bracq, it was the first Mercedes to be designed outside the factory. The timeless shape lasted into the early 70’s with only capacity increases really changing. These SL’s are sometimes called "Pagoda" cars. The cars were available with an optional hardtop, the roof centre of which is slightly lower than the sides reminiscent of the shape of a Japanese Style Pagoda. The sides of the roof were raised a bit to allow easier entry and exit, to permit larger side windows, and to increase roof strength.

Although our car is from South Africa, it is a factory “California Coupe” which has two (very) small seats in the rear. It has seatbelts front and rear, and a manual gearbox. It also has an excellent stereo.

Weekday points: 6; Weekend day points: 12.