We get calls from people all over the U.S. wondering if their classic car has value. Sometimes, the car is in funky shape. It’s been “well loved” and not properly cared for. Maybe a wildcard uncle gave it a crazy paint job or added their own personal touches to the interior, like leopard-print seat covers and fringe on the dashboard. 
Grandpa could have tried to DIY the restoration using shortcuts like cheap fixes and low-grade replacements. At this point, you’d think it’s worthless no matter what brand and model the poor car is. But that’s rarely the case when you’re talking about a luxury car from a decade like the 1960s.
As a top classic car buyer and seller in California, we are used to seeing vintage cars in various states of repair. Just because a classic car is in bad shape doesn’t mean it’s ready for the scrapyard. Especially if it’s a 1965 Mercedes 230SL, a.k.a. the Pagoda W113. Even when they’ve been “mistreated,” no one can deny the pedigree.
Anyone looking at getting a 1965 Mercedes 230SL valuation should contact us. We’ll look past the rough conditions and provide a fair assessment and cash offer. Sometimes we restore them, and sometimes we don’t. It all depends on what’s on our plate. For instance, here’s a 1965 Mercedes Pagoda purchased by the original owner. It still needs some work, but it is all original and ready for a professional restoration.
1965 Mercedes 230SL is a Beauty in Any Condition!
As passionate classic car experts, when we access a car, we envision what it must have looked like when it left the dealer’s lot. A 1960s Mercedes is just as desired today as it was when it was “born.” The Pagoda was not only a great ride and fun, but it was a trendsetter, too. During that decade, car safety began to become essential to the public. As newer, faster sportscars were sold to the population there was a rise in more substantial injuries and even fatal car accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports the fatality rate was much higher in the early 1960s than today. Safety features such as seatbelts and body designs with security in mind were not commonplace like they are today.
Mercedes helped change that. The Mercedez-Benz 230SL was the frontrunner in safety features by being the first car fitted with disc brakes. Along with a vacuum servo to power the front discs. The interior’s smooth corners and strong frame were also intended to help lower the possibility of injuries during an accident. And seatbelts were added as an option.
Mercedes-Benz engineer Béla Barényi is recognized as a leader in modern car safety. He deserves the credit for developing crumple zones, side impact protection, anti-lock brakes, and a collapsing steering wheel. These innovations make the classic Mercedes a safer drive than many other classic cars of the era.
From John Lennon to Harry Styles, the 1965 230SL Never Loses Its Charm
Innovative features are only one reason why the 1960s Mercedes-Benz sportscars are still famous today. The drive and perfect mix between luxury and sportscar caught the eye of many with good taste. At the time, the Mercedes Pagoda was the darling of celebrities like Walt Disney, Tony Curtis, Sophia Loren, and Beatle John Lennon. Later, celebrities like Tina Turner and John Travolta fell for its charm.
The Mercedes Pagoda roadster has also gained the attention of the new generation. It’s not equipped with high-tech GPS or stereo systems (although they can be attached), but the design is still fresh. Fairly new celebrities like Harry Styles own one.
Recently, John Lennon’s Pagoda sold at auction. And if a classic car owner is interested in buying this classic car from a famous owner, they will continue to scan high-level auction houses. But most classic car buyers are interested in the car, no matter who the previous owner was. We are always on the lookout for them. Anyone interested in getting a 1965 Mercedes 230SL valuation and ready to sell can contact our Dusty Cars team. It is always a pleasure to find and help rehome these fantastic little gems!