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…

First registered in May 2004, this SL350 looks stunning in Tellurite Silver with a grey leather interior and 5-spoke 18” alloy wheels. It has covered only 73,400 miles in the hands of three owners and comes with a good service history comprising seven stamps to date, the last at 64,924 miles in December 2014, plus many supporting invoices.

Equipment includes multi-way adjustable heated electric seats; wood trim pack to the centre console, door cards and steering wheel; electric steering column; sat nav; windscarf; Tracker anti-theft system plus all the usual SL refinements. Said to drive beautifully with everything working as it should, it is shod with a matching set of Continental Sport Contact tyres with plenty of tread remaining.

It comes with all its original handbooks in the original M-B wallet, the aforementioned service history, nine old MOTs and a current MOT valid until October 2016 with no advisories recorded. A true modern classic, it looks amazing value at the sensible guide price suggested and will be a lovely car to own over the coming summer months.