Introduced in 1963 and produced through 1967, the Mercedes-Benz 230 SL was developed as a successor to both the 190 SL and the legendary 300 SL, combining sports-car performance with the comfort and refinement of a touring car. Designed by Paul Bracq, it is known for its distinctive, slightly concave removable hardtop, which earned it the nickname “Pagoda” for its resemblance to the roofs of traditional Asian temples. Its design incorporated advanced safety features for the period, including a rigid passenger cell and front and rear crumple zones, while engineering highlights included fuel injection, four-wheel independent suspension, and disc brakes. Over time, the model evolved with larger-displacement engines, becoming the 250 SL for 1967–68 and the 280 SL for 1968–71.

This example, originally painted white, was purchased by Walt Disney after he spotted it in the window of a Los Angeles Mercedes-Benz dealership, and it has remained in his family.