Among the hundreds of rare and exotic vehicles at the DFW Car & Toy Museum, a striking 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SL in red holds particular sentimental value as the vehicle that began Ron Sturgeon's collecting journey more than 35 years ago. Known among insiders as "the car that started it all," this Mercedes-Benz wasn't acquired in pristine condition but rather required significant restoration after suffering minor fire damage near the right rear quarter, reportedly caused by a smoker while fueling.
Sturgeon purchased the damaged vehicle from an insurance company and meticulously restored it to its current condition, replacing only the taillight, rear bumper, and performing expert paint and bodywork. The result is a stunning example of the beloved "Pagoda" SL that now serves as both a museum centerpiece and a regularly driven classic car. This restoration story highlights how automotive preservation often begins with salvaged vehicles that enthusiasts transform into showpieces through dedication and expertise.
The 1971 280SL represents the last of the "classic" SLs, with the W113 model holding a special place in automotive history for its combination of advanced engineering, refined styling, and timeless drivability. Finished in factory-correct red, the vehicle is powered by a robust 2.8-liter inline-six featuring Bosch mechanical fuel injection—a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz engineering during that era. It's paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, offering the smooth, capable ride that has made this model a favorite among collectors and driving enthusiasts for decades.
"This Mercedes isn't just a beautiful car—it's personal," says Ron Sturgeon, owner of the DFW Car & Toy Museum. "It's the first collectible I ever bought, and I've driven it more than any other. It reminds me why I fell in love with cars in the first place." This personal connection demonstrates how individual passion projects can evolve into significant cultural institutions, with the museum now occupying a 150,000-square-foot facility in North Fort Worth that welcomes visitors with free parking and admission.
The museum's transition from private collection to public institution reflects broader trends in automotive preservation and education. Visitors can learn more about the collection at https://dfwcarandtoymuseum.com, where the institution continues its mission of sharing automotive history with enthusiasts worldwide. The 280SL's journey from damaged insurance write-off to museum cornerstone illustrates how personal automotive passions can grow into community resources that preserve engineering heritage while inspiring new generations of collectors and restorers.
