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.
Included with the SL are a fully stamped service book and the original factory build card documenting its specification.
The service book is stamped all the way through to 49,817 miles, initially by Mercedes-Benz dealers in Orpington, Kent, where it started life and then in Cardiff, where it has lived for most of its life since. Later service stamps are from Stuttgart Garage in Pontypridd – one of the best-known and well-regarded Mercedes specialists in South Wales.
The car has a Tracker fitted that you’ll just need a subscription for to reactivate (you’ll probably save the difference on your insurance) and comes with a UK V5C and MOT valid until August 2022, which the vendor is happy to renew for the next owner.
Unsurprisingly for a car that was so expensive when new, the SL 500 is remarkable well-equipped. The pale grey leather seats are heated and electrically adjustable right through to the head rests.
Other than a few tiny stone chips commensurate with its age, the SL is in fabulous condition, retaining a deep shine and lustre. The vendor has had the wheels fully refurbished and they are as good as new.
The first question to ask when buying an SL 500 is “Has the Active Body Control (or ABC) pump been replaced and in the case of this one, yest it has. That’s the one big bill out of the way.
It has also been impeccably well-maintained throughout its life and it runs perfectly, holding a steady temperature and with a smooth idle.
The vendor reports that it drives perfectly with no known faults.
With prices of previous generation 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.
This one is a fine example – low mileage, high specification and a great colour. You’ll struggle to find a better value luxury sports car, or one as nice to drive.
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2003 Mercedes-Benz SL 500
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