The R230 model made its mark when it appeared as the Safety Car for Formula One at the 2001 German Grand Prix in Hockenheim. The 5.0 litre M113 V8 engine provides 306 bhp and produces 460 Nm of torque at 4,250 rpm. The silky 5-speed automatic transmission can be overridden to provide manual changes.
The Active Body Control system directs a hydraulic ram above each coil spring to continuously alter its spring rate to counter body roll, pitch, and dive. This limits the body motions in long sweeping bends and during hard application of the pedals.
Car & Driver wrote, “The car is such a universal icon of tasteful style and refined substance that it magically confers those qualities on anyone who drives one. The SL performs this alchemy because for nearly 50 years it has represented automotive excellence. The original Gullwings were close cousins to Le Mans winners. The recent ones have bristled with cutting-edge technology. The one common thread has been visual beauty, and this fifth-generation SL is the prettiest one in the past 30 years.”
Supplied new by Mercedes-Benz Park Royal in March 2003, our SL 500 has a full-service history file, and has just enjoyed a service and new tyre set (changed due to age). All its driver’s handbooks, original Nokia 6310i mobile phone and its spare remote key are present with the vehicle. It is in excellent condition as you would expect at this low mileage, and with just one owner. It will also be supplied with a 12-month comprehensive written warranty. The SL 500 is an excellent modern classic car which remains attainable.
It is available to view now at our London showrooms.
