2003 Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG (R230)

Released in 2002 following five years of development, the R230 series SL Roadster was a high-performance luxury convertible produced between 2002 and 2008 representing a harmonious blend of opulence and power. 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 still fun to drive, it was an instant success and is widely considered to be the best-looking Mercedes for many years. It remains an iconic symbol of Mercedes' commitment to combining luxury and performance, appealing to those who seek the best of both worlds in a grand tourer.

In late 2003, the stunning SL55 AMG was introduced causing shockwaves in the early-2000s performance car market with near-supercar levels of acceleration and handling, packaged in a comfortable, elegant convertible geared towards touring capability. Seriously powerful and impressively fast, the supercharged 5.4-litre V8 was rated at 493bhp with a stump-pulling 520 lbs.ft of torque. The cars were fitted with an uprated 5-speed automatic featuring AMG's 'Speedshift', and there were a number of trim differences including uprated seats and the SL55 sat on a set of striking, multi-spoke AMG alloys.

First registered on the 09/06/2003, this SL55 is finished in Obsidian Black over Exclusive Black and Anthracite Leather punctuated by ‘AMG aluminium’ inlays on the door cards and centre console. The options list in 2003 was packed full of state-of-the-art equipment and, it would appear in this case, most of the boxes had been ticked including:

• 220 - Parktronic System
• 404/405 Multi-contour Seats
• 415 Glass Roof with ambient lighting
• 487 - ABC Suspension (Active Body Control)
• 618 - Bi-Xenon Headlamps
• 772 - AMG Styling Package -Front Spoiler, Side Skirt
• 810 - Premium Sound System
• 819 - CD Changer
• 860 - TV-Tuner Analog
• 873 - Seat Heater for Left and Right Front Seats
• 875 - Heated Screen Wash System
• 882 - Sensor System and Antitheft Alarm System
• 889 - Keyless-Entry

The history file is rather nicely stocked for such a modern car and includes many receipts and a full-service history from Mercedes. Showing an odometer reading of some 28,995 miles, at the time of cataloguing this car represents incredible value for money.

The car presents exceptionally well and appears almost unmarked. The engine bay looks showroom fresh and the whole car has patently been looked after. Ballistically quick, fabulous looks, continent covering pace, yet as civilised in town as a Toyota Corolla, it's no wonder that some 'supercar' owners tend to get a little upset.