Welcome Lightblue, I recently took the plunge and purchased a ‘69 280SL, maybe I can give you some advise/help about how I went about it (not claiming to be an expert) but maybe I can help you a bit. I have only had the card or 3 days already smitten by it . I also know of a very original 280SL , the person I bought mine from has a 2nd car one for sale. (Just to be clear I have no interest in that car or the seller)
Pieter in RI