2002 Mercedes-Benz SL500 (R230) Registration Number: B12 LO...

Hammer

£3,800

2002 Mercedes-Benz SL500 (R230)

Registration Number: B12 LOW
Chassis Number: WDB2304752F0306386
Engine number: 11396330429936
Recorded Mileage: 80,257

The fifth generation Mercedes-Benz SL, the R230, was manufactured between 2001 and 2008. With all the fun of the open air allied to what is effectively a proper hard-top coupé for those times when the weather was a little unpredictable, the car featured a fully retractable hardtop that was marketed as the Vario Roof- a first for the SL class. Stuffed full of high-tech safety features, its most significant was perhaps Active Body Control, or ABC, which used hydraulic accumulators to regulate and vary the height and stiffness of the suspension. This system gives – again – the best of all worlds; a pillowy soft ride when you want to gently cruise around, and a hard-edged sporting bias to the handling when you want to drive a little harder.

Powered by the smooth and muscular 5.0-litre V8 (M113) engine, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission, the SL500 delivers a seamless blend of long-distance refinement and classic V8 character. With circa 300bhp and ample torque, it offers effortless acceleration and a composed, sophisticated drive.

This example, first registered in September 2002, and finished in a timeless and elegant colour scheme, is supplied with two keys and accompanied by a comprehensive MoT history, corroborating its mileage. The car has received consistent and careful maintenance over the years, from MB main dealers and Marque specialists, including attention to known model-specific issues such as water ingress and ABC hydraulic performance.

In the current ownership, the car has benefitted from a range of significant works including the replacement of the ABC hydraulic pump, new track rod ends and tie rods, a refurbished PSE (Pneumatic System Equipment) pump, and regular servicing. The SL has also received a new set of Bridgestone Potenza tyres and wheel alignment.

The paintwork presents smartly and the car remains in excellent mechanical health, with excellent road manners and ride quality. The retractable hardtop operates as intended, providing the versatility of both open-top and coupe motoring in one beautifully engineered package.

With a strong maintenance history, refined design, and increasingly appreciated V8 platform, this early-production SL500 is a compelling modern classic - offering Mercedes-Benz engineering with real-world usability and enduring presence.