Description
H&H Classic Auction @ The Imperial War Museum, Duxford/ Cambridgeshire
20th September, 2023 10:00
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG
Just 46, 000 miles from new
Estimate
£20, 000 - £24, 000
Registration No: AY03 HJD
Chassis No: WDB2304742F049111
MOT: July 2024
Just 46, 000 miles from new
Collected from the factory in Germany by the first owner
Low ownership example
Documented history and sundry invoices
Notable as the most powerful production car ever fielded by Mercedes-Benz upon its launch in 2002, the SL55 AMG received rave reviews from the contemporary motoring press. Boasting one of the greatest engines of the 2000s, its supercharged 5. 5 litre V8 produced some 476bhp and 700Nm of torque (the latter at just 2, 650rpm). Allied to a five-speed automatic transmission, it enabled the two-seater to sprint from 0-60mph in 4. 5 seconds and on to a limited top speed of 155mph. However, AMG ‘let slip’ that a de-limited yet otherwise standard example has been clocked at 205mph! Surprisingly civilized given the performance on tap, the SL55 boasted a full suite of ‘creature comforts and a firm but not jarring ride. Visually enhanced via re-profiled bumpers, quad exhaust tips, and 18-inch alloy wheels, demand for the newcomer soon outstripped supply.
As the classic market continues to appreciate the many qualities that these superbly proportioned and eminently useable R230 Mercedes SLs offer, discerning buyers are gravitating to the rare SL55 AMG models. Unlike the standard cars these higher specification (not to mention the numerous additional extras that could be specified) much more powerful, driver-focused cars are in short supply, particularly if offered with only 46, 000 genuine miles, minimal owners and in truly exceptional order throughout. Collected direct from the factory by its original owner and subsequently registered to his company, ‘AY03 HJD’ was then purchased by the vendor.
Recently serviced by Mercedes-Benz Truro and having had a suspension fault rectified at a cost of over £4, 000, this superbly presented example will be supplied with 2 keys, a complete original document pack and extensive history file, verifying its remarkably low mileage, plus a current MOT certificate. As is evidenced by the accompanying photographs, this example bears scrutiny from the most fastidious potential buyer and is ready to enjoy and find a new home, to continue its assured journey in the rarified world of classic Mercedes 'Sports Light' models. Offered at the sale with the handbooks and 2 keys.
