Modified 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280SL 'Strawberry' Showcases Classic Restoration with Modern Performance Upgrades

The DFW Car & Toy Museum is currently featuring a distinctive 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280SL that represents a thoughtful fusion of classic automotive design and modern performance enhancements. This particular vehicle, part of The Ron Sturgeon Collection, has undergone extensive restoration work exceeding $70,000, with the most significant modification being the installation of a performance-focused five-speed manual transmission that transforms the driving experience of this iconic luxury roadster.

Originally finished in Silver Metallic with an Anthracite Grey hardtop, this U.S.-market Mercedes-Benz now sports a rich metallic burgundy repaint that has earned it the affectionate nickname "Strawberry" for its deep, distinctive appearance. The custom color complements the vehicle's sleek proportions and timeless W113 "Pagoda" design, making this 280SL stand out even among meticulously preserved factory-original examples. The visual transformation represents a departure from traditional restoration approaches while maintaining the elegant lines that have made the Pagoda SL series so enduringly popular among collectors and enthusiasts.

Mechanically, the car retains its original 2.8-liter M130 inline-six engine, which was completely resealed during the multi-year refurbishment process to ensure smooth and reliable performance. The most significant mechanical upgrade comes in the form of a Tremec five-speed manual transmission sourced from the specialists at Bud's Benz, replacing the original automatic transmission typically found in these models. This conversion brings a new level of driver engagement and precision to the luxury roadster, appealing to enthusiasts who prefer manual shifting in their classic vehicles.

Ron Sturgeon, founder of the DFW Car & Toy Museum, emphasized the vehicle's dual appeal, stating, "This 280SL captures the best of both worlds—classic Mercedes design and modern drivability. It's a car you admire standing still and absolutely love behind the wheel." The statement underscores how thoughtful modifications can enhance rather than detract from a classic car's character, potentially influencing restoration trends within the collector car community.

Additional restoration highlights include a completely refreshed braking system with new rotors, pads, and lines installed in 2020, VDO instrumentation set into a body-colored dash fascia, and a period-correct Becker Europa stereo in the center console. The five-digit odometer currently shows 87,000 miles, providing context for the vehicle's history and the scope of the restoration work undertaken.

With disc brakes at all four corners, a rev-happy 7,000-rpm tachometer, and the rare combination of a manual gearbox in a car traditionally equipped with automatics, this modified 280SL represents both a collector's piece and a driver's delight. The vehicle is displayed at the museum's new 150,000-square-foot facility located at 2550 McMillan Parkway in Fort Worth, which offers free parking and admission to visitors. The museum's operating hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, with additional information available through their website at dfwcarandtoymuseum.com.

This exhibition demonstrates how classic car preservation is evolving beyond strict originality to include thoughtful modifications that enhance driving pleasure while respecting the original design intent. The vehicle serves as an example of how modern components can be integrated into vintage platforms, potentially inspiring other collectors to consider similar approaches that balance preservation with improved functionality. The display also highlights the growing trend of museums showcasing modified classics alongside factory-original examples, reflecting changing attitudes within the collector car community about what constitutes proper preservation and restoration methodology.