To give it its full name it is a Mercedes-Benz 250SL California Special, a version of the 250SL Pagoda that was made for just over a year: from 1967 to 1968 a special ‘California Coupé’ 2+2 body style ran in limited production with a fold-down rear bench seat instead of the soft-top. The ‘SL’ term originates in the German Sport-Leicht – which translates into English as Sport Light.

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Mercedes-Benz had a tough act to follow after phasing out its popular 190 SL in 1963. A new model, designated W113, appeared as the 230 SL in 1964, evolving into the larger-engined 250 SL and 280 SL. This classic two-seat luxury touring convertible offered a more modern and angular look, often accentuated with a tall, airy ‘Pagoda’ hardtop. The 250 SL, featuring strong articulation front to rear, was both expensive and rare, with only 5,196 sold between 1966 and 1968, making it the rarest of the ‘Pagoda’ Mercedes.

The 250 SL was both expensive and rare, with only 5,196 sold between 1966 and 1968, making it the rarest of the ‘Pagoda’ Mercedes.The W 113 SL was developed under the auspices of Mercedes-Benz Technical Director Fritz Nallinger, Chief Engineer Rudolf Uhlenhaut and Head of Styling Friedrich Geiger, who had previously designed the iconic 500K/540K and 300 SL.

The lead designers were Paul Bracq and Béla Barényi, who created the patented, slightly concave hardtop, which inspired the ‘Pagoda’ nickname.

Range also improved with increased fuel tank capacity from 65 L (17.2 US gal) to 82 L (21.7 US gal). Like its predecessor, the 250 SL was offered with a 4-speed automatic transmission, and 4-speed or ZF 5-speed manual transmissions.

For the first time, an optional limited slip differential was also available. Of the 5,196 250 SLs produced, more than a third were sold in the US.

The new 2.5-liter engine for the 250 SL featured seven main bearings, which while having no real impact upon overall horsepower, led to an extra 15 foot-pounds of torque, making the engine more flexible. The improvement in performance was aided further by the addition of rear disc brakes. To maintain Mercedes-Benz’s bulletproof build quality, a larger capacity cooling system and an as-standard oil-water heat exchanger featured.

Right now at Beverly Hills Car Club we have one of these rare beasts, a 1967 Mercedes-Benz 250SL California Special that is finished in its exquisite factory color Dark Blue (332G) gracefully complemented with a Navy blue interior. As I said, the California Special features a unique rear bench seat in place of the traditional convertible top, adding a touch of exclusivity and practicality to this already stylish vehicle.

Convenience features include Coco-type floor mats, low-back bucket seats, rear bench seat, center console, manual-crank windows, dual-side rearview mirrors, door pockets, sun visors, glove box, Becker Europa radio, and a fender-mounted antenna.

This Mercedes-Benz is a true automotive gem that combines vintage charm with optimal performance. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a passionate enthusiast, this highly collectible California Coupe is sure to turn heads wherever you go and is mechanically sound.

And wherever you drive this beauty, you will feel you are in California! Mmmm…

-Alex Manos, Owner