HIGHLIGHTS

Very low mileage Jersey import with fewer than 23,000 indicated on the digital odometer
Striking Magma Red paintwork in really fine condition
Electrically operated folding roof in full working order

THE APPEAL

A 5.0-litre SL became part of the Mercedes-Benz range in 1981 during R107 production and proved a firm favourite amongst customers. More than twenty years later, the R230 continued to offer V8 engines in their perennially popular convertibles and we’re delighted to present this smart 2003 example.

The R230’s innovative electric folding hard top made it effortlessly transformable from convertible to proper pillarless sports coupé and we’re informed that it works exactly as it should on this example.

Recently imported from Jersey where the car travelled few miles owing to the small road network, this is amongst the most presentable SLs of this vintage we’ve seen.

THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK

Originally supplied to Jersey
Now registered in the UK on registration plate LW03 AKX with taxes paid
NOVA and tax completed
Comprehensive service history as demonstrated by numerous stamps in the service book
V5C present
MOT valid until january 2024
Accompanied by a selection of invoices for parts and servicing
Retains some Jersey registration paperwork

THE INTERIOR

With its low mileage, the interior continues to hold up very well
Upholstered in beige leather which remains in really good order
Minimal wear or discolouration to the seats
All the veneers appear in really nice shape and contribute to the premium aesthetic
Equipped with a period Nokia car phone and a CD multichanger
No signs of UV damage to the dashboard
All the switchgear and controls are reportedly in good order
Some light wear is evident on the steering wheel and gear lever, but this is not excessive
The carpeting remains smart throughout the cabin and boot space with just a few small blemishes

THE EXTERIOR

Strikes a handsome figure Magma Red paintwork
Panoramic hard top electrically retracts at the touch of a button
The paint looks to be very bright with few marks besides the odd small stone chip
We noticed a very small scuff on the nearside front bumper
Very clean and tidy underneath
Sits upon attractive seven-spoke alloys

THE MECHANICS

4996cc V8 engine
Automatic transmission
Two batteries replaced
On the day of the photoshoot, the engine was a little stubborn to start which the vendor informs us was down to a flat battery, which we understand has now been rectified
Reportedly drives very well with no issues or untoward noises to report
With the aforementioned low mileage and good service history, we’re assured this Mercedes-Benz still feels tight and responsive and should continue to do so or years to come

SUMMARY

The R230 is without doubt a modern classic and this one has a great deal in its favour.

With few miles on the odometer, good service history and a sonorous 5.0-litre V8 under the bonnet, there’s certainly a lot to like.

Notice to bidders

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