230SLs have permanent handles, as shown on the hardtop pics as well (not sure if 250s do or not). I assume that their removal (and placement in the glovebox) had something to do with US safety standards. Otherwise, I can’t see why they would bother to change them.
Apart from the speakers and uncertain floor repairs, it appears that the motor compartment was either painted or under coated at some time. However, it’s interesting that its firewall insulation pad is still largely intact. That’s pretty rare.
It’s probably just because I’m a 230 owner, but it’s too bad that the original angular dash pad has been replaced with something more like the later rounded style. In addition, the vinyl used is the later, larger grain. I just don’t think it fits with these cars. I tried to source original grain Tex seat covers for my 230, but I’ve not found them anywhere (logical, I guess, when you think about the number of 230s vs 280s — why tool up for both?). The Classic Center must have had the same issue, as the Italian-market 230SL that’s been on their site for months has also the later grain (and, horror or horrors, apparently no fender notches!).
