- 1968
- 2 seats
- 168 hp
- Manual gearbox
Its story
The Mercedes-Benz 280SL Pagoda is a timeless icon of automotive elegance, blending sophistication with spirited performance. Renowned for its sleek, clean lines and distinctive concave “pagoda” hardtop, the 280SL was designed by Paul Bracq, showcasing an era-defining fusion of form and function.
Under the hood, it features a robust 2.8-liter inline-six engine producing 168 horsepower, delivering smooth acceleration and refined cruising capabilities. The car’s advanced suspension system and precise handling made it a joy to drive, whether navigating city streets or open highways. Inside, the cabin is a masterpiece of mid-century luxury, with leather upholstery, wood accents, and intuitive controls.
- Ideal for
- Basque coast road
- Basque Country wedding
- Weekend for two
Driving the Mercedes 280 SL Pagoda
On the Basque coast the sky changes quickly, and the Pagoda copes with it gracefully: the fabric soft top, folded under a panel behind the seats, goes back up in a few minutes when a shower rolls in from the Atlantic. This 1968 car dates from the first years of the 280 SL, and behind the wheel you find everything that built its reputation: a smooth six cylinder that pulls without effort, a gentle manual gearbox and suspension that copes well with bumpy back roads. It is easy to place, visibility is excellent and the two seat cabin stays comfortable for a full day. The boot takes two travel bags. It suits couples looking for an elegant, reassuring classic rather than a hard edged sports car.
Where to drive it
From Saint-Jean-de-Luz, cross Ciboure to the Socoa fort, then take the Corniche road, the D912, which runs along the top of the flysch cliffs to Hendaye. The ocean is on your right, the Pyrenees ahead, and every lookout is an invitation to stop. Pause at the Domaine d'Abbadia, a protected coastal estate, and at the neo Gothic castle built for the scholar Antoine d'Abbadie. Return along the same corniche to see the coast from the other direction, and finish on the Saint-Jean-de-Luz harbour.
Classic car rental in Saint-Jean-de-Luz →Gallery
Availability
Greyed-out dates are already booked. Pick your dates, then send your request.
Mercedes 280 SL Pagoda: your questions
How is it different from the Pagoda in Nice?
Same model, two bases. This 1968 car is based in Biarritz and rents for 690 euros a day; the other, from 1970, is on the French Riviera.
What if it rains on the Basque coast?
The soft top goes up quickly and keeps the cabin dry. A shower will not spoil the day: close the roof, wait for the sun under cover and carry on with the top down.
Can I book it for a wedding in Biarritz or Saint-Jean-de-Luz?
Yes. The car can be decorated on request, a chauffeur option is available on request, and delivery to your venue is quoted on request.
What are the rental conditions?
Drivers must be 25 or over with at least 3 years of licence, and the security deposit is 5,000 euros. A down payment is taken at booking, the balance at key handover, and the car leaves full and should come back full.
