Mercedes-Benz SLK230 Kompressor

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“The SLK was a game-changer, and that makes it a good choice as a future classic. Look after one and the value is only going one way: an inexpensive investment, and a nice car to have around for high days and holidays” – Honest John.

Launched in 1996, the SLK230 pioneered the concept of the folding metal roof in an affordable production car and the ingenious design was swiftly copied by rival manufacturers. By pressing a button on the centre console the roof would lift and concertina away into a rear deck that lifted up on hydraulic rams, so it was safely stowed away in just over 30 seconds. As an engineering masterpiece, it was a sight to behold.

With a sub-£30,000 price tag and compact dimensions, it was also an instant hit with a waiting list across Europe right from the outset. While dynamics came second to the posing factor, there was no doubt that the car was quick, Mercedes’ patented supercharging technology wringing almost 200bhp out of the 2.3-litre straight-four engine. The SLK was all about looking good, and that was something it did in spades.

First registered in October 1998, this silver SLK230 has had just two lady owners from new and has been in the current ownership since 2014. It has covered 88,625 miles and comes with its original Mercedes bookpack, the service book showing seven stamps up to 58,333 miles in 2008. There are also six old MOTs back to 2013 and a VOSA MOT history printout back to 2006.

On offer here from a deceased estate, the last MOT expired in November 2018 with no advisories recorded and the car has covered less than 20 miles since it passed that test. It started promptly and ran nicely as we moved it around for these photos.

AMENDMENT: Gearbox fault. Does not change up from second gear.