1969 Mercedes 280 SL Pagoda

This SL arrived off the back of the 300 SL and 190 SL, but caused a stir as it looked nothing like its predecessors.

The complicated surfacing and sensuous curves were replaced by a much simpler body shape, while a concave roof earned it the Pagoda nickname.

The 1969 280 SL we drove was equipped with a four-speed automatic gearbox, and didn’t want to be hurried along. But that wasn’t a problem when the ride was so comfortable and we were looking so damn cool.

This was the first model to confirm Mercedes’ move to a focus on comfort.