Author Topic: Is this VIN a Pagota?  (Read 12116 times)

OldGuard60

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Is this VIN a Pagota?
« on: February 10, 2022, 00:32:33 »
I was given this VIN 11304412020271.  Is this a Pagota?
Thx

Vander

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #1 on: February 10, 2022, 01:14:33 »
Yes, 280SL automatic, left hand drive
1969 280SL

WRe

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #2 on: February 10, 2022, 06:57:21 »
Hi,
production time August 1970.
...WRe

MikeSimon

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #3 on: February 10, 2022, 13:44:57 »
It's actually a Pagoda... ;)
1970/71 280SL Automatic
Sandy Beige
Parchment Leather
Power Steering
Automatic
Hardtop
Heated Tinted Rear Window
German specs
3rd owner

JamesL

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #4 on: February 10, 2022, 16:31:47 »
Well, the VIN is. It might be on an MGB ;)
James L
Oct69 RHD 280 in DB906 with cognac leather

OldGuard60

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #5 on: February 22, 2022, 02:37:42 »
How do you find out this info?  Where can I go?
Thx

OldGuard60

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #6 on: February 22, 2022, 02:41:25 »
Did you find out it's had 3 owners?  I ask because I'm thinking of buying it, but thought it was a 1 owner car.  Only has 13,758 miles on the odometer.  Been in a garage in a high-rise forever I'm told.

Jordan

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #7 on: February 22, 2022, 11:43:36 »
You can start here in the tech manual https://www.sl113.org/wiki/DataCard/Start.  You'll need to log in first.

The car could also have 113,758 miles, unless it has documentation proving it only has 13,758 miles.  Keep in mind that it is also not that difficult to swap speedometers in these cars.
Marcus
66 230SL  Euro 4 speed

Rolf-Dieter ✝︎

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #8 on: February 22, 2022, 12:27:48 »
Hi Marcus,

He cannot start there since he is not a Full Member, however, he can once he joints as Full Member.

Hi OldGuard60,

You ask how do we find this out, well we as Full Members have complete access to our site and there is a wealth of information available to us.

Also note that the low adometer reading you have on the car you wish to purchase means very little unless you have maintenance document on the car that would prove the low milage. No one knows if the cars odometer has not seen 100,000 miles/KM and started again from zero!

I recommend you get the car on a lift and have a knowledgeable mechanic check the car (one that knows Pagoda's well). He will be able to tell you how many miles/km the car may have traveled. Also, get a Data Card so you can check for matching numbers. Our website has information on this. So you need to be a full member to have access to all this information, well worth your $30- Investment (less then 0.09 cents per day). Think about that. Our site also has detail PPI (prepurchase inspection) guidelines that will help you to make a decision to purchase the car or not.

Good Luck,

Dieter
DD 2011 SL 63 AMG and my 69 Pagoda 280 SL

MikeSimon

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #9 on: February 22, 2022, 13:28:14 »
Here is some info regarding the original question:
VIN number
113 = Model W113 = 230,250 280SL (Pagoda)
044 = 280SL (042=230SL, 043=250SL)
1 = Left hand drive (2 = RHD)
2 = Automatic Transmission (0 =Manual)
020271 = serial number

I hope this wasn't too much info revealed to a non-full member.
1970/71 280SL Automatic
Sandy Beige
Parchment Leather
Power Steering
Automatic
Hardtop
Heated Tinted Rear Window
German specs
3rd owner

Pawel66

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #10 on: February 22, 2022, 13:40:53 »
You can start here in the tech manual https://www.sl113.org/wiki/DataCard/Start.  You'll need to log in first.

The car could also have 113,758 miles, unless it has documentation proving it only has 13,758 miles.  Keep in mind that it is also not that difficult to swap speedometers in these cars.

It is also not the difficult (even easier) to attach a power drill to the speedo shaft and make the car younger in 15 minutes. It indeed is the documents, authentically looking, that will tell you the miles.

Engaging expert is the best you can do.
Pawel

280SL 1970 automatic 180G Silver
W128 220SE
W121 190SL
G-class

OldGuard60

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #11 on: February 22, 2022, 13:51:02 »
Thank you very much.  I have joined as a Full Member and am excited to learn all I can about this group and this car.

Now, I plan to contact the shop that serviced the car.  The car was actually owned by my wife's aunt (a very wealthy lady who parked it in a hi-rise garage) who passed away and it has been offered to me for a price.   I am trying to determine if that price is fair, hence the research and questions.

I love the look of the car and it's cool and I would like to have it IF it makes sense.

I certainly appreciate everyone's help/comments/guidance as I embark on this journey...
« Last Edit: February 22, 2022, 13:56:44 by OldGuard60 »

Pawel66

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #12 on: February 22, 2022, 13:54:09 »
Ooopps...

Sorry for that power drill...
Pawel

280SL 1970 automatic 180G Silver
W128 220SE
W121 190SL
G-class

OldGuard60

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #13 on: February 22, 2022, 14:00:31 »
Hi Marcus,

He cannot start there since he is not a Full Member, however, he can once he joints as Full Member.

Hi OldGuard60,

You ask how do we find this out, well we as Full Members have complete access to our site and there is a wealth of information available to us.

Also note that the low adometer reading you have on the car you wish to purchase means very little unless you have maintenance document on the car that would prove the low milage. No one knows if the cars odometer has not seen 100,000 miles/KM and started again from zero!

I recommend you get the car on a lift and have a knowledgeable mechanic check the car (one that knows Pagoda's well). He will be able to tell you how many miles/km the car may have traveled. Also, get a Data Card so you can check for matching numbers. Our website has information on this. So you need to be a full member to have access to all this information, well worth your $30- Investment (less then 0.09 cents per day). Think about that. Our site also has detail PPI (prepurchase inspection) guidelines that will help you to make a decision to purchase the car or not.

Good Luck,

Dieter

Hi Dieter,
I just joined and look forward to this journey. 

Rolf-Dieter ✝︎

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #14 on: February 22, 2022, 14:02:17 »
Frank,

Welcome to our group you made the right decision. You will meet members from all around the world don’t be shy to ask questions we are a friendly bunch.

Best

Dieter

PS. I will post a PM to you that will give you a head start on our site. Look for it under Messages.  Also I will post a welcoming package to you today.

Thank you very much.  I have joined as a Full Member and am excited to learn all I can about this group and this car.

Now, I plan to contact the shop that serviced the car.  The car was actually owned by my wife's aunt (a very wealthy lady who parked it in a hi-rise garage) who passed away and it has been offered to me for a price.   I am trying to determine if that price is fair, hence the research and questions.

I love the look of the car and it's cool and I would like to have it IF it makes sense.

I certainly appreciate everyone's help/comments/guidance as I embark on this journey...
DD 2011 SL 63 AMG and my 69 Pagoda 280 SL

JamesL

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #15 on: February 22, 2022, 14:19:15 »
My 2c?
If that's truly where it's been living as a 1 owner car, it should be pretty solid/rust free. On which basis, anything you pay is likely to be fair as fixing rust - seen and otherwise - is pricey
If, however, the car is a 4 owner car and prior to your aunt buying it it was a daily driver on salty wet roads.... go carefully!

There's a buyers guide you now have access to, and MotoringInvestments on Youtube did a video buyers guide that's also very good.

Short of an actual on ramp inspection/full documents:
Asssume the engine has been through 114k (since July 1970), and think that at some point it will need a rebuild but if it's been regularly serviced (when in use), that could be some time away. So if there's a decent history file... Arguably better for use than sitting doing <300m a year
Check for rust - closely around the headlamp bowls, trunk floor, lips of the wheel arches and up inside the front wheel well - there's a longitudunal structural "shelf" above and inboard of the front wheels. Put your hand up there, or phone and see what you find.

BUT, if it's been sitting for a while, it'll need a full recomissioning (use our search function) from fuel system to radiator, tyres upwards

If you love the look of the car, it really will never make sense. There's no such thing as a cheap one, and it will end up costing you time/money or both. Sense is buying a Toyota. But life is short and you'll get many more smiles per mile. Stop Making Sense
James L
Oct69 RHD 280 in DB906 with cognac leather

OldGuard60

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #16 on: February 22, 2022, 14:27:53 »
Thanks for that.  I am looking for a place to put up a video of it running in just the past 3 weeks or so (my father in law started it up to show it running).  Once I have that done, I will let everyone know so they can hear it themselves.

Vander

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #17 on: February 22, 2022, 14:28:43 »
Post a picture of the engine bay, that will tell a lot about the car's history.
1969 280SL

OldGuard60

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #18 on: February 22, 2022, 14:33:07 »
Post a picture of the engine bay, that will tell a lot about the car's history.
Unfortunately, I was not in CA to photo the car.  My father in law and wife were there to attend the service and they took the photos I am using. 

OldGuard60

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #19 on: February 22, 2022, 14:43:37 »
My 2c?
If that's truly where it's been living as a 1 owner car, it should be pretty solid/rust free. On which basis, anything you pay is likely to be fair as fixing rust - seen and otherwise - is pricey
If, however, the car is a 4 owner car and prior to your aunt buying it it was a daily driver on salty wet roads.... go carefully!

There's a buyers guide you now have access to, and MotoringInvestments on Youtube did a video buyers guide that's also very good.

Short of an actual on ramp inspection/full documents:
Asssume the engine has been through 114k (since July 1970), and think that at some point it will need a rebuild but if it's been regularly serviced (when in use), that could be some time away. So if there's a decent history file... Arguably better for use than sitting doing <300m a year
Check for rust - closely around the headlamp bowls, trunk floor, lips of the wheel arches and up inside the front wheel well - there's a longitudunal structural "shelf" above and inboard of the front wheels. Put your hand up there, or phone and see what you find.

BUT, if it's been sitting for a while, it'll need a full recomissioning (use our search function) from fuel system to radiator, tyres upwards

If you love the look of the car, it really will never make sense. There's no such thing as a cheap one, and it will end up costing you time/money or both. Sense is buying a Toyota. But life is short and you'll get many more smiles per mile. Stop Making Sense
How can I find out if this was a "..4 owner car" or a 1 owner car?  Can I do that using this site as a Full Member?

OldGuard60

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #20 on: February 22, 2022, 14:54:51 »
Here is a video to hear it running just 3 weeks ago
https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x884xs5
PW:  dailymotion

Mike Hughes

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #21 on: February 22, 2022, 15:04:20 »
Look at the title.  It won't tell you how many previous owners, but it should tell you when your wife's aunt titled the car and the odometer reading at that time.  Compare the current odometer reading to that recorded on the title. If it is higher, and the date on the title is many years or decades ago, then it is possible that the mileage is genuine. If it is lower, the speedometer has rolled over.

Since the subject vehicle is essentially a family-owned vehicle, other family members may be able to fill in some of the blanks for you.  She may have kept a file of service records as well.  In the end, its condition should help you decide if you are going to be the next family member to be its long-term custodian.
- Mike Hughes  -ô¿ô-
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DaveB

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #22 on: February 22, 2022, 15:10:22 »
It is probably a really nice car, I think you should buy it  :)
That is a good idea from Mike about the mileage on the title documents, if it shows there. If not, the condition of the interior should distinguish a 14k mile car from a 114k mile car. Also a good idea to contact the mechanics if they're still in business.
I don't think there is any easy way to trace the car ownership back. Hopefully there will be some paperwork with the car.
DaveB
'65 US 230sl 4-speed, DB190

OldGuard60

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #23 on: February 22, 2022, 15:18:59 »
Given all that I know (and you guys know now), what do you feel would be a good price for it? 

Mike Hughes

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #24 on: February 22, 2022, 15:31:37 »
If the car was offered to you, surely a figure was mentioned.  It might be more productive to get an informed opinion on that figure.
- Mike Hughes  -ô¿ô-
  1966 230SL Auto P/S
  Havana Brown (408)
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OldGuard60

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagoda?
« Reply #25 on: February 22, 2022, 16:02:30 »
If the car was offered to you, surely a figure was mentioned.  It might be more productive to get an informed opinion on that figure.
Less than $45K (but not much less)
« Last Edit: February 23, 2022, 21:10:05 by OldGuard60 »

JamesL

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #26 on: February 22, 2022, 17:07:13 »
Buy it
Bite their arms off ;)

James L
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Vander

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #27 on: February 22, 2022, 18:07:12 »
Less than $45K (but not much less)

A running 280SL for $45k that is supposedly rust free, BUY IT! Or private message me their contact info and I will.   :D
1969 280SL

Mike Hughes

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #28 on: February 22, 2022, 23:55:19 »
Buy it!  It presents well, starts and runs, has been parked long-term in a dry garage by a family member.  Buy it!
- Mike Hughes  -ô¿ô-
  1966 230SL Auto P/S
  Havana Brown (408)
  Light Beige (181)
  Cream M-B Tex (121)

OldGuard60

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #29 on: February 23, 2022, 01:37:21 »
Buy it!  It presents well, starts and runs, has been parked long-term in a dry garage by a family member.  Buy it!
Thanks.  Will do. 

johnk

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #30 on: February 23, 2022, 12:40:45 »
Looks like a non-original radio which is odd for a 13k mile car. Still sounds like a deal if rust free.
John Krystowski
Avon Ohio
1968 Euro 280sl under restoration
2016 Jag F-Type R sold june 2021
1950 Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 SS For sale
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Bpackish

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #31 on: February 23, 2022, 19:00:03 »
If you don’t have a data card is there a place to order one? Sorry I’m need to all of this and I’m trying to figure a cars numbers out. It seems this is a replacement motor?

OldGuard60

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #32 on: February 23, 2022, 19:05:32 »
If you don’t have a data card is there a place to order one? Sorry I’m need to all of this and I’m trying to figure a cars numbers out. It seems this is a replacement motor?
I haven't put up a picture of the motor (yet).  I am awaiting more detailed photos of the car, motor, trunk, etc this Friday.  Perhaps you are in the wrong Topic?

OldGuard60

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #33 on: February 23, 2022, 19:08:20 »
Looks like a non-original radio which is odd for a 13k mile car. Still sounds like a deal if rust free.
I noticed that too.  Who knows why it was replaced.  I hope to have all these questions answered soon when I get the detailed photos, title, etc. 

MikeSimon

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #34 on: February 23, 2022, 19:28:41 »
I haven't put up a picture of the motor (yet).  I am awaiting more detailed photos of the car, motor, trunk, etc this Friday.  Perhaps you are in the wrong Topic?

It is called "hijacking a thread". ;D To Bpackish: Yes, it is a replacement motor.
1970/71 280SL Automatic
Sandy Beige
Parchment Leather
Power Steering
Automatic
Hardtop
Heated Tinted Rear Window
German specs
3rd owner

OldGuard60

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagoda?
« Reply #35 on: February 24, 2022, 03:34:42 »
Hey Guys,
This Friday, I am having someone go and take photos of the car I am buying.  IF you were doing this, what would you make sure you photographed?
Here is what I am thinking and I welcome input if I missed anything.

In no particular order

Engine bay - Detailed
Trunk (under the mat)
Headlamp bowls
Title (if available)
Service Documents (if available)
Under the rear parcel shelf
Spot welds on inner fender well
Fire wall pad
Original dust cover for distributor
Data Card (if available)
Body number stamped on underneath of hood (up top on drivers side)
Data plate – Drivers side of engine bay next to brake booster
Books/paperwork
Spare tire (to get make and size)
Snowflake Detail: Sticker on windshield on drivers side (Kinonglas-Kristall IRA)?

johnk

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #36 on: February 24, 2022, 04:17:38 »
Also take pictures
Under the floor mats towards the front and the same spot under the car.

Also take pics under the car just below the parcel shelves and around the trailing arm mount.

When you get the pics under
The parcel shelf make sure you can clearly see the low point in the front outer corners. This low spot is where the water sits after it leaks I’m from the parcel shelf.

Take pics of the sides
Of the car standing at the front and rear corners to spot any waves in the paint from previous body work.

Take pics of the backside of the valence lip under the rear bumper to see if any bondo drippings exist from a previous repair.
John Krystowski
Avon Ohio
1968 Euro 280sl under restoration
2016 Jag F-Type R sold june 2021
1950 Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 SS For sale
2008 E350
2007 GL 450
2019 BMW 540

kampala

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagoda?
« Reply #37 on: February 24, 2022, 05:03:36 »
Hey Guys,
This Friday, I am having someone go and take photos of the car I am buying.  IF you were doing this, what would you make sure you photographed?
Here is what I am thinking and I welcome input if I missed anything.

In no particular order

Engine bay - Detailed
Trunk (under the mat)
Headlamp bowls
Title (if available)
Service Documents (if available).
Under the rear parcel shelf
Spot welds on inner fender well
Fire wall pad
Original dust cover for distributor
Data Card (if available)
Body number stamped on underneath of hood (up top on drivers side)
Data plate – Drivers side of engine bay next to brake booster
Books/paperwork
Spare tire (to get make and size)
Snowflake Detail: Sticker on windshield on drivers side (Kinonglas-Kristall IRA)?

If the photos are to help you decide to buy or not, then many of the items listed are not relevant.  If the photos are just cause you don’t want to wait and are eager, then no issue.

Would a snowflake sticker really help tip the balance on buying this car?
Would the spare tire really help tip the balance on buying this car?
Would books really help tip the balance?
Etc etc. 

If photos are to buy or not — focus on what matters - rust, generally not molested, major accident,  major panel gap issues,  if you are really getting this for 45k, I would not be overly picky.  All the “nice to haves” matter and do tip the balance if you were paying 145k not so much if paying 45k us$

Don’t buy blind, make sure the major important stuff is okay.  As said by others If you hesitate, tell us so we can check it and maybe buy it.

Good luck

250sl - later - manual
280sl - 1971 - Auto - LSD

Aslam

Mike Hughes

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #38 on: February 24, 2022, 14:01:31 »
As you might have gathered from some of the recent responses, while not an insignificant amount of money, the asking price is a bargain.  The only deterrent in my mind would be evidence of significant rust, especially rust perforation, or availability of funds.
- Mike Hughes  -ô¿ô-
  1966 230SL Auto P/S
  Havana Brown (408)
  Light Beige (181)
  Cream M-B Tex (121)

OldGuard60

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #39 on: February 24, 2022, 14:07:48 »
I agree.  YES!  I am getting the car.  My apologies for any misunderstanding. 
Just looking to make sure it isn't a 'time bomb' awaiting the next steps.

Norm

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #40 on: February 24, 2022, 14:57:57 »
Since you are in Houston you should stop by and visit with Gus Kidonakis at Beverly Hill Motors.  He is located just west of the galleria area by 59 and 610.  You can google his address 5820 Beverly Hill Houston.

Gus can show you examples of problem areas and would probably welcome the opportunity to help you with your purchase decision.  At the very least if you purchase the car you will want to have Gus look over the car and advise what, if any, problem areas need to be addressed.

Watch this video.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AOE8WTZ9Mec

Good luck with your purchase.

Norm
Norm
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1994 Acura NSX Formula Red
2024 Acura RDX A-Spec, White Pearl
2016 Mercedes S63 AMG Coupe Obsidian Black
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OldGuard60

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #41 on: February 24, 2022, 15:44:32 »
Since you are in Houston you should stop by and visit with Gus Kidonakis at Beverly Hill Motors.  He is located just west of the galleria area by 59 and 610.  You can google his address 5820 Beverly Hill Houston.

Gus can show you examples of problem areas and would probably welcome the opportunity to help you with your purchase decision.  At the very least if you purchase the car you will want to have Gus look over the car and advise what, if any, problem areas need to be addressed.

Watch this video.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AOE8WTZ9Mec

Good luck with your purchase.

Norm
Wow!  Thank you for this. 

68_white

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #42 on: March 08, 2022, 03:43:47 »
I second Norm's suggestion. If you live in Houston you would want Gus to be your best friend. Don't waste any time, take your car to Gus ASAP. You will not regret it.
HARRY

1970 280SL RED
2002 E430 SILVER
1996 911 BLUE

OldGuard60

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #43 on: March 08, 2022, 21:58:19 »
I second Norm's suggestion. If you live in Houston you would want Gus to be your best friend. Don't waste any time, take your car to Gus ASAP. You will not regret it.
Thanks 68_white.  I am certainly going to do that once I get the car here. 

Pinder

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #44 on: March 09, 2022, 00:31:05 »
Dont over think it. its a great price for what looks to be a great example.
1970 280 SL Light Ivory DB 670. 4 Speed manual shift no AC Limited Slip Diff.

OldGuard60

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #45 on: March 09, 2022, 20:55:26 »
Dont over think it. its a great price for what looks to be a great example.
I'm getting it for sure.  Now just have to get it to my house, get it checked out and enjoy it!

OldGuard60

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #46 on: March 22, 2022, 19:43:56 »
Guys,
I'm getting close to finalizing the paperwork and shipping the car from SF to Houston.  I would like to know a transport company (covered) that you would recommend?
Thx
OG60

Norm

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #47 on: March 22, 2022, 19:56:22 »
I used Intercity.  Very professional.  I would use again.

Norm
Norm
1966 230SL 162H Blue-Grey
1994 Acura NSX Formula Red
2024 Acura RDX A-Spec, White Pearl
2016 Mercedes S63 AMG Coupe Obsidian Black
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OldGuard60

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #48 on: March 22, 2022, 20:17:55 »
I used Intercity.  Very professional.  I would use again.

Norm

Thanks Norm!  Also, what Insurance company do you use?

Norm

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #49 on: March 22, 2022, 21:34:11 »
I did use Hagerty and liked them but USAA had me switch to American Collector.  Now all of my insurance is under my USAA umbrella policy.

Also, I have my collector cars registered in Texas as "Antiques".  They renew every five years and I don't have to deal with safety inspections every year.  The driving "limits" may not work for you but the limits are fine for me.

Did you get a chance to stop by and meet Gus yet?

Norm
Norm
1966 230SL 162H Blue-Grey
1994 Acura NSX Formula Red
2024 Acura RDX A-Spec, White Pearl
2016 Mercedes S63 AMG Coupe Obsidian Black
2011 Harley Davidson Super Glide Light / Dark Root Beer

OldGuard60

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #50 on: March 22, 2022, 21:49:09 »
I did use Hagerty and liked them but USAA had me switch to American Collector.  Now all of my insurance is under my USAA umbrella policy.

Also, I have my collector cars registered in Texas as "Antiques".  They renew every five years and I don't have to deal with safety inspections every year.  The driving "limits" may not work for you but the limits are fine for me.

Did you get a chance to stop by and meet Gus yet?

Norm
Ok.  Thx.  I am not going to be driving this really at all.  I haven't met with Gus yet.  I was waiting till I had the car here and then set up a day/time to bring it to him (on a trailer!) to look it over.   
« Last Edit: March 22, 2022, 22:04:10 by OldGuard60 »

Norm

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #51 on: March 22, 2022, 22:04:25 »
If I were closer to Houston I would be happy to meet.  Unfortunately for me Wimberley is a few hours drive from Houston and I don't get over there much anymore.

While you are waiting for the car to arrive you should stop by to visit Gus.  Call first to make sure he will be available.  If you just show up with your car on a trailer he might not have the time you want to discuss your car.  Beverly Hill Motors (713) 977-9612.

Looking forward to hearing more about your car when you have it in Houston.

Norm
Norm
1966 230SL 162H Blue-Grey
1994 Acura NSX Formula Red
2024 Acura RDX A-Spec, White Pearl
2016 Mercedes S63 AMG Coupe Obsidian Black
2011 Harley Davidson Super Glide Light / Dark Root Beer

OldGuard60

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #52 on: April 01, 2022, 18:37:13 »
Ok, finally have photos of vehicle.
Here's what I know.
1.  It has a bit of rust in the trunk (would love to hear from any of you who have also had this and how you fixed it).  I am not going to do the work myself, but would still like to know.
2.  It has only one owner (my wife's aunt).
3.  Pictures are here:  https://photos.app.goo.gl/dNHRCd4Vx7ZpgJy67

I am excited about this journey and look forward to hearing from any/all of you who have also been on this trip to restoring a 1971 280SL. 
« Last Edit: April 04, 2022, 02:15:24 by OldGuard60 »

Mike Hughes

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #53 on: April 01, 2022, 21:31:25 »
Looks like a nice honest original car that was carefully used and was drilled for a cellular decklid antenna back in the 80's when car phones became the rage.

I'm tempted to say that a good going over with a wire brush and a vacuum to clean up the trunk floor and application of some POR-15 might be all that is needed to take care of the mess in the trunk.  Undo the two knurled nuts at the base of the "B" post behind the seats and remove the parcel shelves to examine the condition of the metal floor in the cavity hidden under the parcel shelves.  If there is similar rust down in the corners, the same remedy as the trunk floor may be needed.  Both of these areas are worth further inspection from time to time to gauge the efficacy of the remedy and prevent further damage.
- Mike Hughes  -ô¿ô-
  1966 230SL Auto P/S
  Havana Brown (408)
  Light Beige (181)
  Cream M-B Tex (121)

MikeSimon

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #54 on: April 02, 2022, 13:27:33 »
Looks like a solid car. very nice. Same color as mine, 467 Sandy Beige! Like it!
1970/71 280SL Automatic
Sandy Beige
Parchment Leather
Power Steering
Automatic
Hardtop
Heated Tinted Rear Window
German specs
3rd owner

OldGuard60

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #55 on: April 02, 2022, 14:58:24 »
Looks like a nice honest original car that was carefully used and was drilled for a cellular decklid antenna back in the 80's when car phones became the rage.

I'm tempted to say that a good going over with a wire brush and a vacuum to clean up the trunk floor and application of some POR-15 might be all that is needed to take care of the mess in the trunk.  Undo the two knurled nuts at the base of the "B" post behind the seats and remove the parcel shelves to examine the condition of the metal floor in the cavity hidden under the parcel shelves.  If there is similar rust down in the corners, the same remedy as the trunk floor may be needed.  Both of these areas are worth further inspection from time to time to gauge the efficacy of the remedy and prevent further damage.
Thanks Mike.  I will try the POR-15.

kampala

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #56 on: April 02, 2022, 16:26:08 »
Looks like a great buy as you paid less than 50k.  Very nice.

Regarding the mileage— of course I don’t know for sure but I would think the car has 113k miles vs 13k.  Or the odometer stopped working.  It’s a great car — don’t get me wrong.  The wear on the seat pockets, the wear on the wood between the seats, the wear on the carpet, the repaint (based on overspray) the wear on the heater levers, the hand brake etc, lead me to believe much more use than 13k miles.

Again, just my opinion and nothing more.  You have an amazing buy if rust is limited to trunk as it most likely is due to California life.   Trunk rust is common.  Glad you got it and do hope you drive it and enjoy it vs not wanting to add miles. 

Thanks very much for sharing the photos and following up.  The group appreciates follow up after helping with opinions. 

Enjoy it !


Added note:  once you evaluate the extent of trunk rust and if no perforations or weak spots - you can wire brush, clean, use degreaser such as por 15 degreaser (great stuff) and use por 15 metal prep. At this point I would be very careful if you use por 15 for final as it often looks like a por 15 patch job. I would asses and most likely use an epoxy primer/sealer that is compatible with metal prep ( zinc phosphate) such as PPG, and seal properly.  Then apply paint. For nice car it should look great and not patched up.  Again opinion.
« Last Edit: April 02, 2022, 17:04:35 by kampala »
250sl - later - manual
280sl - 1971 - Auto - LSD

Aslam

johnk

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #57 on: April 02, 2022, 17:06:29 »
Beautiful car. Wish my aunt had one.

Not sure o would start Brushing POR 15 on the trunk surface rust.  From originality standpoint I might try to just remove the rust using a rust remover so you can keep the original paint.
John Krystowski
Avon Ohio
1968 Euro 280sl under restoration
2016 Jag F-Type R sold june 2021
1950 Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 SS For sale
2008 E350
2007 GL 450
2019 BMW 540

Mike Hughes

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #58 on: April 02, 2022, 18:15:31 »
Thanks Mike.  I will try the POR-15.

POR-15 is a rust abatement system, not just paint.  Kampala described the various steps of the process much better than I could, and his suggestion for final finish are spot on.  There is ample discussion of the correct trunk paint on these forums.  Search "trunk paint."
- Mike Hughes  -ô¿ô-
  1966 230SL Auto P/S
  Havana Brown (408)
  Light Beige (181)
  Cream M-B Tex (121)

OldGuard60

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #59 on: April 08, 2022, 19:33:17 »
Post a picture of the engine bay, that will tell a lot about the car's history.
Does this work?

OldGuard60

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Re: Is this VIN a Pagota?
« Reply #60 on: April 08, 2022, 19:34:56 »
Does this work?
How about this one?