***Vendor supplied images***
Highlights
- 1 owner from new
- Just 34,205 miles
- Comprehensive service history
- Excellent condition inside and out
The Appeal
The R230 iteration of Mercedes’ legendary SL was introduced in 2001 and proved an instant hit. Bruno Sacco’s contemporary styling made for a truly attractive modern GT, while the wonderfully compact electrically folding hard top meant the R230 could go from sporting coupé to open-top cruiser at the touch of a button.
This very low mileage SL was ordered new as a company car in 2005. Having enjoyed it immensely, the owner decided upon his retirement to keep the car, and so bought it from his company. Throughout its life the car has been garaged when not in use and, more recently, has only been used on warm sunny days allowing it to present in fantastic all round condition. With a high specification, fine history, low mileage and long MOT, this is definitely not one to miss.
The History and Paperwork
- Two registered keepers from new – as a company vehicle then as a private vehicle for the same person
- Original owner’s handbooks present and correct
- We’re told by the vendor that the car was serviced in August of this year using genuine Mercedes parts and included both an engine and gearbox oil service
- A new set of Continental front tyres were fitted at the same time as the service
- The car comes with an MOT to August 2023, with no advisories
- The service history is complete, a mix of main dealer and independent specialists, with all invoices and the original stamped service book being present
- Services with stamps or invoices at” 2,484 / 9,988 / 16,842 / 23,054 / 30,013 / 34,135
- All MOTs since 2009 have been passed first time
- History file includes all MOT certificates, numerous invoices for maintenance and two keys
The Interior
- The interior presents in overall excellent condition, with no notable damage, excessive wear or UV damage
- The dark grey leather seats are unmarked and in excellent condition, with only hints of wear from use
- All carpets are free from damage and stains, presented in almost new condition
- Original factory fitted overmats in excellent order
- Electrically operated, heated seats with lumbar support said to work perfectly
- Electric windows and door mirrors functioning as they should
- Automatic headlights and cruise control
- All switches and controls functioning perfectly and undamaged
- Original Mercedes Command system including Sat Nav and hands-free phone connection working correctly
- The vendor tells us that the dual zone air conditioning is blowing ice cold
- Boot area and carpeting present in superb condition
- Unused spacesaver spare tyre and original tool roll present
The Exterior
- The metallic Brilliant Silver paintwork is in exceptional condition with a deep lustrous shine, with only a couple of minor blemishes – a small stone chip on the driver’s door and a hairline scratch by the door handle
- The bodywork and trim elements are free from damage, dents and evidence of corrosion
- The headlights are in original unmarked condition and completely clear
- Factory-fitted 7-spoke 17” alloy wheels, in excellent condition with no evidence of kerbing
- Newly fitted Continental tyres all round
- Folding hard top works perfectly opening and closing smoothly
The Mechanics
- 3,724cc V6 engine, serving up 242bhp and 258 lb-ft to the rear wheels
- Known for its smooth power delivery and robust reliability, this engine is the perfect companion for the SL
- 5-speed automatic transmission
- In 2021 the car had both of its batteries replaced at a cost of £378.00
- The engine bay presents in excellent condition, with no evidence we could see of damage, leaks or overheating issues
- The vendor tells us that the car drives “faultlessly”, with no issues they are aware of
Summary
There are many reasons to love the R230 SL, from its elegant design to its surprising practicality and high quality engineering.
This example is presented in a lovely specification, with genuinely low mileage, a fine service record and a superb history file. With a recent service and long MOT, it’s the kind of car you can have absolute confidence in. Beautifully presented and ready to be enjoyed, we feel this would make for an excellent purchase.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
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