With fuel prices creeping ever upwards, it pays to be frugal. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy yourself, and the Mercedes-Benz R230 350SL is a case in point. As grand and imposing as the large V8-engined models, it’s a GT convertible with genuine 30mpg fuel economy.
The R230SL set new standards for Mercedes-Benz in terms of dynamics and handling, too, when it debuted in 2002. The company was competing in Formula One in conjunction with McLaren at the time and the British company played a hand in helping develop the new SL, which was dynamically leagues ahead of its R129 predecessor.
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.
This 2004 example is a really smart example that has clearly been well-loved from new, benefitting from a complete service history and with some smart AMG extras such as its multi-spoke wheels and sports exhaust system.
With prices of previous generation R107 and R129 SLs continually on the up, the R230 is a great value proposition as well as looking like a sound investment, and this one is a truly lovely example – genuine low mileage, high specification and finished in a gorgeous colour combination. The perfect modern classic.
The History and Paperwork
First registered in June 2004
Supplied by Mercedes-Benz of Dartford
UK V5C
MOT March 2024, can be renewed on sale
Fully stamped service book up to 78,012 miles in July 2022
Lots of receipts and invoices for work carried out, maintained by a combination of main dealers and independent specialists
Original factory build sheet
Mercedes-Benz Certificate of Conformity
Dealer pre-delivery inspection stamp
Two keys
Original sat nav DVDs
Always garaged by previous owner and only used during summer months
The Condition
Mercedes-Benz Brilliant Silver paint, unrestored and presented in very good original condition with no evident or obvious flaws
No corrosion advisories on past MOTs
Flawless 18-inch AMG alloys with recent rubber
Vario-Roof operates perfectly
Spotlessly clear headlights – no cloudiness
Keyless entry system
Follow-me-home headlights
Grey leather trim in good overall order with one small hole in driver’s seat base
Two-tone grey dash and centre console in great condition
Electrically adjustable seats
Seats have heating and massage functions
Fully functional Mercedes-Benz COMAND infotainment with nav
CD changer
Dual zone climate control
Cruise control
DISTRONIC Parking sensors
Superbly presented in excellent condition throughout
Very well maintained with documented servicing by main dealers and independents
New water pump
Recently renewed brake discs and pads
Drives and runs beautifully
Great performance and surprisingly good fuel economy
BEFORE YOU BUY
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✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
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