IN THE GARAGE: 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL500

Near flawless, one-owner example

THE EVOLUTION OF AN AUTOMOTIVE ICON Since its introduction in 1954, the Mercedes-Benz SL has been the embodiment of a lifestyle that evoked a certain status in life while still being able to enjoy it. Borne of a racing pedigree, yet sophisticated and opulent, they are the cars of the stars and the country club set. In 2003, Mercedes once again set a new standard for sports luxury automobiles with the R230. Its styling, performance and refinement drew accolades from both the press and public. Road & Track deemed it “a true benchmark automobile” and nearly a decade later, it remains one of the more stunning, scintillating, technologically advanced, luxury automobiles on the road. The SL500 presented here is a near pristine, impeccably maintained, beautiful driving example that’s covered just over 29,000 miles in that decade by one meticulous owner from Sarasota. Its pampering is evident in every aspect. The paint and finish are near perfect, with only one small chip on the rear right wheel arch and a tiny nick in the front bumper (pictured). No other chips, scratches, or dings. There was a very low speed impact that was repaired by a Mercedes-Benz authorized body shop to factory specifications (the car contacted a pillar while backing out of the garage; the cosmetic damage was very light but the retractable hardtop, hydraulics and mechanics had to be replaced. The good news is that is all factory fresh). The interior is near perfect. The materials are flawless in their finish. Leather shows no wear or discoloring, wood trim is lustrous and rich, carpets are pristine. All controls work properly with cold AC, smooth window and seat operation in all directions. The top (as one might expect from factory fresh mechanics) retracts and raises seamlessly. There’s no pixel fade in the instruments and no stickiness to any of the buttons. The drivetrain is solid and smooth. There are no leaks, smoke, or unusual noises. Its tenacious maintenance over the years has assured that. Braking is typical Mercedes, that is to say legendary. Ride is silky but handling is surprisingly crisp. 18″ AMG wheels are bright, clean and show zero curb rash. They are shod with Michelin Pilots that retain 80% tread. This is without question one of the finest examples of one of the finest automobiles ever made.

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