280 Engine Transplanted into a 230

[WillyBoy]

Hey Guys,

I am looking at a 1965 230 SL with a 280 engine in it.  Does this have a major impact on the performance or value of the car?


Thanks,

WillyBoy

[Jordan]

Willyboy,

It is entirely up to you if it has an impact on the value.  If you want the car to show then yes it will have a significant impact but if you are buying the car just to drive it around, then its up to you if you care what engine is under the hood.  Obviously the 280 has more power but I don't know if it will go any faster.  For me it would matter only because I like to have as much of the original car as possible.  So it would be a deal breaker for me.  You can search this site and it will tell you all about the differences between the 230 engine and the 280. There are many far more experienced than I to help you on this.  Happy hunting.

[SteveK]

I have a 230SL which has a 280 engine in it.  I knew it when I bought it and since I'm only interested in driving, it worked well for me.  If you intend to make the car perfect and show it, then having the 280 would be a no-go.   I've had a few little issues that I've fixed related to the transplant done by one of the previous owners.  The things that were missing on my transplant mostly related to engine cooling so I was missing the oil cooler and 280 engine coolant bypass which created some issues. Now that this has been done, the car performs extremely well.  More HP than I will ever need and lots of fun to drive when it comes to having power!

[glenn]

Where in NC?  I'm in Denver, NC at 617 947 6399(C) or 704 489 1696.  Doing a 280 to 230 transplant.

[m300cab]

It may hurt the value of the car, only if your building a show car , IMHO

[holden66]

I bought a 1966 230SL two years ago that just had a 280 engine put in it.  I am not mechanical, and it did not bother me.  I rather looked forward to the more powerful engine.  The previous owner had his mechanic put in the 280 engine, and he did not do a good job, although the engine was in fine shape I am told.  Anyway, after several trips to a mechanic, the car seems to run great.  I am a little bothered that it is not original, but I love the power and responsiveness.  Also, I like the color (white on red)so much that I really do not have the desire to start over.  I like the car to look good, and to run well.  I am not interested in entering car shows.  It probably does hurt the value, but I still like the looks and ride.

Holden 66
230SL 1966 USA

[ja17]

Hello Holden,

Not a big deal to most of us. These engines are closely related and look nearly the same. Only the purist will know the difference unless you tell them.

Happy Motoring !