Mercedes-Benz SL350 (R230)

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Some five years in development, the R230 Series SL Roadster was a replacement for the tank-like R129 Series which had won so many fans for its superb build quality, performance and refinement.

Modelled on a computer which enabled the designers to analyse every curve and line, it looked sensational with an air of contained aggression that gives it huge road presence. Packed full of electronic driver aids which made it immensely safe but also fun to drive, it was an instant hit with press and public alike and is widely considered to be the best-looking Mercedes since the legendary 300SL Roadster of the late 1950s.

The power-operated aluminium folding roof was particularly admired and would disappear into the boot at the press of a button in just 16 seconds, yet still leave enough room for 206 litres of luggage space. The SL350 version came out in 2003 with a 3,724cc V6 developing 245bhp mated to a six-speed semi-automatic box with steering wheel pushbutton changes. It could sprint to 60mph in 6.9 seconds with a limited top speed of 155mph and averaged 24.6mpg in combined use. The only snag was that it also cost over £56,000 without any extras…

This June 2005 registered SL350 looks particularly striking in silver with a red leather interior. It has covered some 84,000 miles with a good service history comprising seven stamps in the book, the first five at M-B main dealers and the last two at BMW main dealers.

Equipment includes electric heated memory seats, Comand Navigation, AMG alloys, wind deflector plus all the usual SL luxuries. Supplied with all its original handbooks it has an MOT until June 2019 with no advisories and is due to have a new MOT in time for the sale.

The vendor acquired the car via Brightwells two years ago to use on her regular visits to UK from Australia but as she now visits less frequently she has decided that the time has come to pass it on to someone who can enjoy it more often. For what it's worth, she also paid considerably more than the modest guide price suggested here...