Description
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PRINCIPAL FACTS:
There’s no mistaking which model this 1997 SL is, with its neat M32 OSL private registration plate giving the game away (available by separate negotiation, by the way). As a ’97 that means this SL 320 is powered by Mercedes-Benz’s M104 in-line six-cylinder engine mated to an automatic transmission. Finished here in Emerald Black with a Mushroom interior, this SL 320 has been with the same owner since they bought it six years after it left the factory, with its previous owners had added 25, 318 miles on its odometer. Since then the current owner has added a little over 48, 000 miles in over 21-years of ownership, with it now time to increase that in the hands of a new owner.
CONDITION SYNOPSIS:
Fine condition throughout, this is a car that’s been enjoyed and used, and there’s a little bit of evidence to show that. Nothing major, though as the bodywork is all straight and the wheels are free of scrapes – however, there’s some minor surface corrosion on the rear subframe, and the spare in the boot does have the odd nick in the rim. The passenger side indicator needs a new lens, but that’s an easy, inexpensive fix. The light interior has worn fairly well, though a deep cleanse to get some of the marks out of the perforated leather seats would lift it significantly. Similarly, the exterior paint would benefit from a lengthy wet mop and paint correction polish from a valeter to bring out its best lustre and removed some swirl marks from the lacquer coat. The hood, like so many R129s is in decent condition, it likely it’s rarely been up, with this car coming complete with its hardtop, too.
HISTORY FILE:
From the invoice highlighting its purchase back in 2003, and a ring binder with plenty of receipts attesting to its subsequent upkeep, this SL 320’s a car that’s been looked after by its owner. There’s a pile of MOTs that highlight that the odometer reading is correct, with it having covered little over 1, 000 miles annually for the last decade or so. That’s enough to ensure things are all kept in good running order, with cars working better if they’re used, and enjoyed, as this one has been.
SLSHOP SUMMARY:
A fine entry to SL ownership, this is what we’d describe as a decent, solid driving SL 320. No, it’s not going to win any concours competitions, but everything’s present and correct – save the aftermarket Blaupunkt head unit, which we’d swap out for something more in keeping with the interior. That, and a front indicator lens. It’s those and a thorough deep clean inside and out from losing some years of use, though mechanically everything appears to be in order and the history file underlines it’s been looked after. A car for its next owner to drive, and improve, this a car that new owner will appreciate, as the market for it does so too.
