2003 Mercedes-Benz R230 SL55 AMG Brabus K8

Highlights

One of only 6 RHD K8s
Low 27,000 miles from new
Hand-built factory ‘red top’ model
540bhp supercar based on SL55 AMG
Full service history to 24,000 miles in 2023
£4,700 recent maintenance and servicing
MOT to August 2025 with no advisories

The Appeal

If a Ferrari 575M or Aston Martin Vanquish are either too shouty or too common for you, try this. It is one of only six RHD K8s, a factory-built Brabus supercar with an array of performance and running gear tweaks delivering similar performance to those Maranello and Newport Pagnell exotica.

The K8 was based on the R230 SL55 AMG. Each one was built by Mercedes-Benz before transferring to Brabus for the K8 hand-crafted makeover, boosting power to 540bhp. This involved new supercharger pulley, bespoke vibration dampener, performance catalysers, upgraded radiator, larger brakes and upgraded ABC suspension system. A gold plate on each engine was the finishing touch. Compared to other Brabus models, the K8 got a restrained, Alpina-esque body makeover. The result is something of a sleeper - only the discreet badges give the game away.

This car, finished in Brilliant Silver with grey leather AMG interior, is superbly preserved. The exceptionally low mileage of 27,198 miles has certainly played a part here, but it has obviously been enthusiast-owned. The history file is impressive, the run of servicing from new to 24,074 miles in August 2023 being a highlight.

This is a viscerally exciting supercar with all the intrinsic appeal of the R230 coupe/convertible. A long MOT to August 2025 with no advisories is just another reason to tempt you.

The History and Paperwork

First registered 1st January 2003
Delivered by factory to Brabus on 11th November 2002
Five registered keepers
Factory-built Brabus K8 as confirmed by red engine covers
2 keys
Believed to be one of only 6 RHD K8s
Based on a factory SL55 as confirmed by VIN numbers
Old MOTs shown in photographs to verify history
HPI clear
8 service stamps to 2nd August 2023 at 24,074 miles
Factory handbooks and wallet in good condition
MOT to 21st August 2025 with no advisories
26,999 miles showing on test and now on 27,198 miles in photographs
Electrical repairs and other work in May 2024 totalling £2,595
Suspension repairs and other work in 2023 totalling £2,166
Servicing and other work in August 2023 at 24,074 miles

Factory SL55 specification includes:

Brilliant Silver paintwork
Proximity cruise control
COMAND infotainment and navigation
Parktronic
Tyre Pressure Control
Bi-Xenon headlights
Rear entertainment
Keyless Go

The Condition

Factory SL55 AMG with Brabus factory enhancements
Standard K8 with raft of Brabus features including wheels, badging and bodywork
Brilliant Silver metallic paintwork in very good order with only minor signs of age
Bodywork presents well with no reported accident damage or deterioration
Underside in good order with no structural advisories on current MOT
20in Brabus bolted polished alloy wheels in good order with only light kerbing
Michelin quality tyres showing good tread and condition
Folding electric hard top reported to be in good working order
High factory interior specification including leather and Alcantara dashboard
Grey leather AMG seats in very good order showing barely any wear
Electric front seats with heating, massage and memory functions
Premium sound system with 6CD changer and BOSE speakers
Brabus interior features including branded mats to floors and boot and sill plates
Factory phone system

The Mechanics

Brabus-fettled 5,439cc M113K V8 engine
Power increased to 540bhp in K8
5spd 5G-TRONIC automatic gearbox
Uprated Brabus-tuned ABC suspension
No reported malfunctions to electrics or running gear
Full service history with only 120 miles since last service
Significant recent expenditure to improve car as shown in photo
No reported running or driving issues
No mechanical or running gear advisories on current MOT

BEFORE YOU BUY

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