2009 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG V12 Roadster (R230)

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 SL55 AMG was introduced in 2003 with its 5.4-litre V8 producing 476bhp and a tree stump-pulling 520lbs/ft of torque it was naturally assumed it would remain top of the range, however AMG had a further party-trick. A year later the SL65 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-litre engine delivers a remarkable 604bhp which is tamed through an intricate network of safety features and keep-you-alive electronics. At 740lbs/ft, the torque output is sufficient to keep you pinned in the immaculately stitched leather seats, in any gear at any time, whilst the 5-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 0-62mph in 3.6 seconds and 0-100mph in 7.5 seconds. All in all, a beautifully packaged amalgam of huge power, sumptuous comfort and a shop-window rattling V12 sound track.

This stunning example is finished in Obsidian Black over black leather and black carpets and was ordered from new with a substantial list of options. According to the PDI report on file it was delivered new on 24th September 2009 to the 'Transport Department' at Mercedes-Benz UK and we understand that it was allocated to senior management. It was serviced in October 2010 by Mercedes Milton Keynes at 6,363 miles and was subsequently sold through Mercedes Salisbury in March 2012 to a Mr R Gibbs who owned the car until it was purchased via Rob Hall of Bourne, Lincolnshire by our lady vendor's deceased husband in July 2020. Sadly he passed away in October 2020 and the Mercedes has been in storage since.

Recent new batteries have been fitted, and it will be freshly MOT'd by the time of our sale. It's accompanied by its original handbooks, manuals etc. in the original leather Mercedes folder, a digital service report on file detailing nine services, some older MOTs and its UK V5C.

This exceptionally rare SL65 AMG Roadster variant has covered just 34,506 miles, remains in excellent condition and seems very sensibly guided when you consider the performance, rarity and sheer quality on offer.