Mercedes-Benz SL500 Roadster

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Ever since the 300SL of the mid-Fifties, Mercedes-Benz has held its SL range of convertible GTs as the zenith of its engineering skill and design prowess. 

The R230 SL series introduced in 2001 was certainly no exception to this tradition and was acclaimed as perhaps the best looking – and driving – SL since the legendary 300SL roadster of 1957. First of the R230 range was the SL500 with its 5-litre V8 engine which produced 306bhp and a hefty 339ft lb of torque. Even in a fairly heavy body with lots of electronic toys and a folding alloy roof, it was capable of pushing the car through 60mph in just 6 seconds and on to a (limited) top speed of 155mph.

This 2003 car comes in the very striking combination of metallic black over red leather – a welcome contrast to the ubiquitous Mercedes silver. It comes with all the expected Mercedes flag ship luxuries: air conditioning, sat nav system, heated seats, keyless go and Mercedes ‘Command’ system. And, of course, that beautifully designed retracting roof which folds balletically away in just 16 seconds and works flawlessly on this car, as the vendor confirms.

Well maintained by its four previous owners, it has covered only 60,000 miles with five stamps in the service book to date, the last at 57,000 miles. MOTd and taxed to February 2015, this consummate ground coverer cost in excess of £80,000 when new, but can be had for a fraction of that now. Retaining all of its elegance, performance and sheer road presence, it is ready for the summer with a fortunate new owner at the wheel.