Craigslist Find of the Week: German Iron Meets American Aluminum
This LS1tech Craigslist Find of the Week is an incredibly display of classic European motoring being matched with classic American muscle.
The 1965 Mercedes-Benz 230SL is an incredibly attractive roadster, and at the time, a technologically-sophisticated machine as well. Much of that was due to the “M127” 2.3L straight-six engine used. With just 2.3 liters of displacement, this engine produced 150 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. 65 horsepower per liter was a pretty solid figure for 1965.
Beyond the power train, the overall chassis design was top notch. Double wishbone suspension up front with a swing axle out back. Power-assisted disc brakes and a curb weight of under 2900 pounds meant that the SL could hustle around a race track. The classic upright ‘Benz proportions give it a sharp, elegant look to match the pace.
However, what if you wanted more pace? How about a lot more speed? Well, then this 1965 230SL is the car for you. This pristine looking SL has had the M127 swapped out in favor of an LS1. Now this is a German hot rod that we can get behind. While yours truly would have opted for a manual transmission, this car is fitted with the slushbox for comfy boulevard cruising. Additionally, the Cragar wheels aren’t my thing, but I will concede that it matches the German-American conglomeration theme.
With all of that laid out, here comes the sticking point: our seller was asking $60,000 for this car. Remember when your parents used to say “If you don’t have something nice to say, don’t say anything at all.” Well, I’m trying to bite my tongue on this one, because holy hell that is a lot of coin. What do you think, is $60K too much or just right?
UPDATE: It appears our seller has gotten cold feet and the car is off the market.
