We are visiting family in Boston, and took a trip yesterday to see Gernold at SL Tech in Arundel. I got a look at the red 230sl. It is as nice as a barn find gets. Very complete and original, including seats, carpet and dash pads. The trunk is outstanding, almost like a new car. Fenders appear original but no notches. Hard top and working soft top. The repaint has a couple of areas with cracking but is otherwise presentable. Chrome is shiny and complete. It will obviously need tires and a mechanical refresh to become a reliable driver. Some work to lightly detail the engine compartment would go a long way. It can own the Survivor Class at club events.
Again, I have no horse in this race. I would hope that in the hands of an "originalist" owner, this car would be enjoyed. It would be a shame if it went offshore and came back on Bring a Trailer as yet another over-restored trailer queen. Or worse, if it went to a flipper for a cheap paint job.
Cheers,
CT