The 280 SL was introduced in December 1967 and continued in production until 23 February 1971, when the W 113 was replaced by the all-new and significantly heavier R107 350 SL. Over the years, the W 113 has evolved from a sports car into a comfortable grand tourer.

Our American models, however, up until then were usually equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission and air conditioning.