HIGHLIGHTS

Stunning example of high-spec SL
Genuine low mileage
Full service history
Rare alloy wheel option

THE APPEAL

When Mercedes-Benz replaced the R129 generation of SL in 2001, it brought the model bang up to date and created one of the most desirable cars of the early 2000s at the same time.

The new “R230” model was not only sleek and stylish, but it also added new technology, modernised styling and a much more modern cabin. It also introduced the company’s trademark electric folding hard top – or VarioRoof - to the model, which had debuted four years earlier on the SLK.

It was a strikingly handsome car but also a very expensive one. At launch, it was offered only as the 386bhp SL500 – a cool £79,995 before you ventured near the options list. Today, it offers astonishing value for money and is one of the most stylish and best-equipped modern classic sports cars going.

This one is bound to gain plenty of interest – not only is it an early example of the top-spec SL, but it’s a genuine low mileage example with less than 48k on the clock and a full service history.

THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK

First registered in September 2002
Supplied by Mercedes-Benz of Epsom, Surrey
UK V5C
MOT July 2023
Fully stamped service book up to 45,000 miles in 2020
Independently serviced from 2020-22
Lots of receipts and invoices for work carried out
Original factory build sheet
Dealer pre-delivery inspection report
Over £3,000 spent since 2020
Private registration included – valued at around £1,000

THE INTERIOR

Two-tone grey leather
Fully functional Mercedes-Benz COMAND infotainment with nav
Dual zone climate control
Cruise control
Hands-free Parrot Bluetooth kit
Parking sensors
Wind deflector
Electrically adjustable memory seats
Dealer floor mats
Superbly presented in excellent condition throughout

THE EXTERIOR

Brilliant Silver
Factory option 20-spoke alloys – as fitted as standard to SL55 AMG
Brand-new Uniroyal tyres all-round
Superb condition with no damage or visible corrosion
Vario-Roof operates perfectly
Keyless entry system

THE MECHANICS

5.0-litre V8
Six-speed adaptable automatic
Recent service – over £3k spent in past two years
Very well maintained
ABC air suspension system checked and in good order
Drives and runs beautifully

SUMMARY

With prices of previous generation R107 and R129 SLs going stratospheric, the R230 must surely be about to follow suit. After all, it turns 20 this year and was one of the best cars in the world when it was new – and in many respects still is today.

This one is a fine example – genuine low mileage, high specification and finished in the most popular colour. You’ll struggle to find a better value luxury sports car, or one as well-equipped or as nice to drive as this particular example, which has to be one of the best on the market right now. With all the toys and gadgets this SL has you’ll not want for anything regardless of how long the journey…

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