2004 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG

First generation R230 transformed by AMG. 63,123 miles

6-litre, twin-turbocharged, V12 producing 604bhp and 740lbs/ft

In classic Silver with 19inch dual-spoke AMG alloys. 'Panoramic' glass roof

Excellent service-history (7 recorded services). Rear brakes overhauled. Two new tyres

Cherished number plate 'V12 GRE' will stay with the car

Introduced in 2002, after some five years in development, the R230 Series SL Roadster was an engineering 'tour de force'. 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 also fun to drive, it was an instant hit with press and public alike and is widely considered to be the best-looking Mercedes for many years. The power-operated aluminium folding roof was particularly admired and would disappear into the top of the boot at the press of a button in just 16 seconds, yet still leave 206 litres of luggage space.

AMG, the official performance division of Mercedes-Benz, has a long history of producing high-performance derivatives of Mercedes' standard production vehicles, and these improved versions enjoy an enthusiastic following worldwide. When the stunning SL55AMG was introduced in 2003 with its 5.4-litre V8 producing 476 BHP and a tree stump pulling 520lbs/ feet of torque it was naturally assumed it would remain top of the range, however, AMG had a further party-trick. A year later the SL 65 AMG arrived and was the new 'King of the Castle'. It retained the stylish looks and civilised manners of the rest of the range but was powered by a V12 leviathan capable of crushing the competition at a push of the accelerator. The twin-turbo, 6.0-litre engine delivers a remarkable 604hp which is tamed through an intricate network of safety features and keep-you-alive electronics. At 740 lbs ft, the torque output is sufficient to keep you pinned in the immaculately stitched leather seats, in any gear at any time, whilst the five-speed automatic transmission with manual capability provides a good level of control. Distinctive 19" dual-spoke AMG-signature alloys camouflage the eight-piston caliper performance brakes and the suspension has been subtly tweaked to deal with the general increase in numbers. Performance is documented at 0-60mph in 3.6 secs and 0-100 mph in 7.5 seconds. All in all, a beautifully packaged amalgam of huge power, sumptuous comfort and window-rattling noise.

This lovely original UK-supplied, right-hand drive, SL65AMG was first registered on 17/09/2004 and is finished in Brilliant Silver Metallic with Stone Grey leather complemented by Charcoal Grey trim. It's fitted with the very desirable 'Panoramic Electric Glass Roof System', a very expensive option at the time offering the advantages of a glass sunroof (with a modesty blind) when the convertible top is up, cooling/heated massage seats, navigation, pre-wired telephone hands-free, parking sensors front and rear, and electric folding mirrors. The current mileage is 63,123 and there are 7 stamps in the service booklet with sundry invoices for maintenance. It's recently had some attention to the rear brakes, two new rear tyres, and the MoT is valid until the 4th of June 2019.

The car is described as being in excellent condition inside and out and is supplied with two remote keys and the complete owner's manuals in the correct binder. Our vendor has generously agreed to include the cherished number, V12 GRE, as part of the sale

The R230 is one of the best-looking cars from the period and the larger engined AMG cars are becoming collectable modern classics. Considering that only a few years ago the, not insignificant, sum of £145,300 would have been necessary to own this top-of-the-range Mercedes, today's guide seems sensible indeed.