Paint color

[Ron.K]

Hello.
I just purchased a 1965 230sl this past weekend. It's kind of a barn find.  It's in rough shape sitting for many years. I received the data card for it today and I'm confused about the paint color. The data card shows ut/573(Body)which is burgandy and ot/181 light beige( hard top and hub caps). My car is blue. The body, carpets, dash seats, hard top ect. It's all blue. I triple checked the serial number and it matches the data card. There is no sign of burgandy anywhere. I looked at the mounting of the data card and it looks like it has not been tampered with. The speedo is in Km's and it's a 4 speed so I think it's a euro md.
Any ideas?

Ron

[Flyair]

Ron,

Repainting in other colours than original is not uncommon for a 40-50 years old car. Some like it, some don't If you are after a strict originality, the better time to make sure there is no surprise like the one you experience is prior to purchase. However, it is not that difficult to get back to roots, depending on the budget.

I suggest you check the resources of this website, starting with checking on what each code in your data card means (provided the data card relates to your car, which you will easily establish based on VIN and other items).
The data card will tell you if the car is a Euro version and all other elements you would like to know.

So, have a good start:
http://www.sl113.org/wiki/DataCard/DataCards

[jameshoward]

What does the paint code in the engine bay say?

[GGR]

Where did you check the serial number? Plates can be swapped. The serial number is stamped on the right chassis rail under the intake manifold. Check there, and if it has been tampered with.

[Ron.K]

Thanks for your help. I will check the other locations of the serial number and the engine bay paint code.

Ron

[Flyair]

Ron, take any color from the list, but PLEASE don't end up painting your car like the one on the picture

[James]

Hi Ron ,
Welcome to the group.
You are about to have an amazing and interesting experience as you research your vehicle and decipher the data card.
I bought my Red 230 SL 6 months ago (Original RHD Automatic) and the journey has been fabulous.
The Pagoda is a great classic to work with  as there were really only 3 models which came as either a manual or automatic . RHD (10 %..my guess) or LHD.. Approx 50 ,000 were made , but other members will tell you how many are still around.
In Australia they had approx 60 at a national gathering last year.
The information re Data cards is available on this excellent web site.
Good Luck .
James