Miguel Sánchez
Digging into the world of classic motors tends to tend towards the original. Therefore, as when a few days ago we spoke of the one and only Testarossa Spider, it is exciting to find a rare or even unique specimen. This is the case of Mercedes 230 SLX 'Shooting Break'. It is a modification from 230 SL 'Pagoda'and well, this example has almost all the class and design of that Mercedes convertible that, thanks to its optional hardtop, could pass for a coupe with stylish lines.
And we say 'almost'because more than one can squeak what you will see next. Why convert a two-seater convertible into a 'ranchera'? Although it may seem strange to some, it must be recognized that from this model to the current Ferrari FF - going through the BMW Z3 Coupe- not uncommon to see hatchback coupes. What is more curious is that, being executed by a small bodybuilder, it does not start from a previous series coupe. At this point, let's see briefly what a 'shooting brake' and what is this Pagoda.
PAY 'SHOOTING BREAK'. THE HUNTER'S CAR
The solidity is German. Italian sportsmanship. But there is one thing that is fully English: the elegance. And as the English are very particular for this, they maintain it even in rural areas. Curiously, there is the origin of the car bodies 'shooting break'. It was impossible to go on country hunts in a coupe because where do you put the dogs? What about shotguns? Large trunks and generously opening doors are required, something that well-known British vehicles such as the Range Rover excel at.
In the unexpected mix between a coupé body and the need for a wide rear for lumps, the concept 'shooting brake'. With about 'shooting' completely justified, as they were mainly hunters' cars. Little by little this was penetrating the British market and things as they are: Aston Martin, Jaguar, Lotus, Jensen… There is hardly any English sports car without its own hatchback preparation. So much success had to Volvo he joined the car and, thanks to an Italian bodybuilder, even Mercedes.
UNIQUE. THE MERCEDES PAGODA OF ITALIAN BODYWORK
In 1963 one of the most celebrated Mercedes appeared: the 230 SL, quickly christened 'Pagoda' since its lines reminded many of these eastern temples. Elegant and sporty in design, this convertible became famous for its comfort wrapped in safety advances that included crumple zones.
To such a fantastic car we would not touch anything, but the criterion of Pietro Frua It was different. Turin, and seasoned in high-end cars, Pietro dared to make his interpretation of the 230 SL in 1966. An interpretation in which the “Pagoda"Became a four-seater 'shooting break'. He only made one, so we are looking at a unique piece.
A unique piece which was sold in Geneva where, it seems, was in turn acquired by the Spanish diplomat Javier Rupérez when he worked at the United Nations. Subsequently, the car was registered in Madrid in the mid-80s, to later be sold to a stockbroker and for the last time - that we are aware of - to an architect from the Canary Islands. What a trip! Like this issue '1 of 1' more or less the truth is that a large trunk is convenient to store such great history.
