The Ultimate Classic Car Collection in Ho Chi Minh City: Mercedes-Benz 250 SL Remains the Ultimate Crown Jewel

A rare gathering of classic cars was recently spotted in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, intriguing both vintage car enthusiasts and foreign visitors alike. Among the cars present were three extremely rare models, including a Ford Mustang, an MG MGB Roadster in red, and the highlight of the show, the one-of-a-kind Mercedes-Benz 250 SL convertible.

The Mercedes-Benz 250 SL, introduced at the 1967 Geneva Motor Show, built upon the success of its predecessor, the 230SL. With production starting in December 1966 and ending in January 1968, the 250 SL is the rarest of the W 113 line, with only a one-year production run.

Mercedes-Benz retained the stiffer suspension and sportier feel of the early SL models for the 250 SL while offering improved handling thanks to its new engine and rear disc brakes. The range was also enhanced with a larger fuel tank, increasing capacity from 65 liters to 82 liters.

The 250 SL, like its predecessor, was offered with a 4-speed automatic or 4-speed manual transmission, or a ZF 5-speed manual. Additionally, a limited-slip differential was available as an option for the first time. Of the 5,196 250 SLs produced, over a third were sold in the United States.

The main change was the use of the M129.II 2.5L engine, with a 6mm increase in stroke, 2mm larger valve ports, and seven main bearings instead of four. While peak power remained at 148 hp, torque increased from 197 Nm to 216 Nm. The cooling system was also improved with a new, larger “round-top” water tank, increasing capacity from 10.8L to 12.9L, and a standard oil-water heat exchanger.

Another notable car at the gathering was the red MG MGB Roadster, with its memorable license plate. The owner has decided to keep this car instead of selling it, unlike the Mercedes-Benz 250 SL.

The MGB is a two-door sports car manufactured and marketed by the British Motor Corporation (BMC), later becoming the Austin-Morris division of British Leyland, from 1962 to 1980. It was first introduced on 19 September 1962 as a four-cylinder soft-top sports car. Variants include the MGB GT three-door 2+2 coupé (1965–1980), the six-cylinder sports car and coupé variant, the MGC (1967–69), and the eight-cylinder 2+2 coupé, the MGB GT V8 (1973–76).

The MGB replaced the MGA in 1962, and production continued until 1980, although GT fixed-roof models ceased to be exported to the United States after 1974. Combined sales of the MGB, MGC, and MGB GT V8 variants totaled 523,836 units. After a 12-year hiatus, the MGB was revived as the heavily modified MG RV8, produced in limited numbers before finally being replaced by the MG F in 1995.