Mercedes-Benz SL350 Roadster

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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.

Painstakingly modelled on a state-of-the-art supercomputer which enabled the designers to analyse every curve and line, it looked utterly sensational with an air of barely contained aggression that gave it huge road presence. Packed full of sophisticated 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 top of the boot at the press of a button in just 16 seconds, yet still leave enough room underneath for 206 litres of luggage space.

Launched in March 2003, the SL350 had a 3,724cc V6 developing 245bhp at and 350Nm torque hooked up to a six-speed Sequentronic semi-automatic 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 March 2004 registered car looks superb in Obsidian black metallic with Orion pale grey leather and has covered only 48,000 miles in the hands of four owners with five MB service stamps to date, the last only 1,000 miles ago. It is packed full of expensive extras, most notably a fantastic Panoramic glass hardtop.

Other goodies include: keyless go; soft closing bootlid; electric heated memory seats with electric steering column and mirrors, all on memory; Command satellite navigation system; CD multichanger; climate control; cruise control; folding door mirrors; wind deflector; 18" 5-spoke alloy wheels with Pirelli tyres all round.

Said to drive beautifully with an MOT into next year, it comes with all its original handbooks and two keys. Sadly the personalised number is not included and it will be on an age-related plate by the time of the sale. Well, you can’t have everything…