2003 Mercedes-Benz SL500 Convertible

Description

Ever since the launch of the legendary 300 SL ‘Gullwing’ in 1954, the Sport Licht (SL) series has served as Mercedes-Benz’s flagship sports car, from the fabulous ‘Pagodas’ of the 1960s through the long-running W107 range of the 1970s and 1980s, to the almost as long-lived R129 model (1989 – 2001).  Announced at the 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show following five years of continuous development, the all-new R230 continued the evolution of R129 with smoother body styling with a fully retractable hardtop.  The fifth-generation SL featured Active Body Control (ABC), active suspension system, Keyless Go entry and smart key, and a Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC) electro-hydraulic brake system.  The R230 family consisted of the usual range of six and eight-cylinder models, starting with the entry-level SL350 powered by a 3.5-litre V6, the mid-range SL500 powered by the familiar 5-litre V8 engine complementing the range-topping V12 biturbo SL600. Two high performance AMG models, the SL55 and SL65, rounded out the range. Priced at an eye-watering $289,474 when new, the SL500 was powered by the M113 V8 engine rated at 225 kW at 5600 rpm and 460 Nm of torque, operated by a drive by wire throttle. The V8 was paired with a five-speed automatic transmission and limited-slip diff, while other features include speed sensitive power steering, a multi-function steering wheel and 17-inch alloy wheels as standard. The list of options was extensive and could push the price well above $300,000 – popular choices included Nappa leather seats, a Bose sound system, 18-inch wheels and a full AMG-style body kit. The R230 range offers arguably the best value of any SL-series built by Mercedes-Benz, combining all the classic attributes that make them so desirable with modern safety and convenience features.