Description
It was in autumn 1996 that Mercedes unveiled its first version of the SLK roadster. Its commercial success was immediate, with lead times exceeding 12 months in the first year of sales. It was the only one on the market at the time to offer a hydraulically and electrically retractable hard top. Called 'vario-roof' by the manufacturer, it consists of a rigid roof split into two sections, a hydraulic cylinder, and several electric motors. The electrically operated roof retracts into the boot in under 25 seconds.
Early on, the four-cylinder 200 and 230 Kompressor engines were offered; the facelift introduced in 2000 saw the arrival of V6 versions. With higher build quality, a new sport steering wheel, new brushed aluminium trim inserts and new alloys accompany this new powertrain. The star badge also, unusually, paid particular attention to the sound of the six-cylinder, and the 218 hp of the SLK 320 express themselves in pleasant vocal notes with lyrical upshifts!
Today we present this very model in an uncommon specification: its classic obsidian black metallic exterior (197) is paired with an original and tasteful two-tone black and Lotus yellow leather interior (219). Our roadster comes with numerous options including bi-zone climate control, heated seats, the Mercedes-Benz Audio 10-CD radio, automatic transmission, cup holders, cruise control, etc...
Originally delivered new in Fribourg on 10 May 2001, it has its fully stamped original service book as well as its owner's manuals. Imported into France in May 2024, it has been cherished by its owner who fitted four new Michelin tyres and had it serviced to the book at a Mercedes specialist. A fresh inspection will be carried out before delivery to its new owner.
Aesthetically it is almost perfect: we repainted the front and rear bumpers (scuffed by daily traffic) and performed a machine polish to bring out depth and gloss. The depth and shine of its paint are remarkable.
Thus, it is a very handsome youngtimer, a collector in the making thanks to its noble powertrain, at a very affordable price, offering a fine pleasure/ investment opportunity.
