The fifth generation of the legendary SL Series convertible sportscars was known as the R230. It featured a fully retractable hardtop that was marketed as the Vario Roof, a first for the SL class although it had been available on the smaller SLK model since 1997. The flagship models were built by AMG in the form of the SL55 and SL65, both highly tuned versions of the SL500 and SL600 respectively. The SL55 was powered by a mighty supercharged version of the 5.5 litre, V8 which produced 493bhp and achieved 0-62 in 4.7 seconds and on to a top speed of 155mph (governed). In theory, the SL55 could reach 190mph if the car was de-restricted but, for many, the acceleration and top speed is impressive enough in its standard form.

This stunning, privately owned, example was first registered on 30th April 2004 to Mr Claridge who purchased it from Chelmsford Mercedes-Benz. Specified from new in Tanzanite Blue with Anthracite leather trim and sitting on AMG multi-spoke wheels with keyless go and pre telephone wiring, Bose sound and heated screen wash all found on the original purchase invoice. Boasting just 51,325 miles from new with only four former keepers all in the first four years before our vendor purchased in 2008. A very well-maintained example with a comprehensive service history detailed below. The original purchase price for a 2004 SL55 was £93,919, our vendor received a new car discount of £2,305.12 but with extras including keyless go and telephone setup equated to a purchase price of £93,250.

The SL55 is an incredible car, comfortable and luxurious while capable of supercar performance all with a retractable hardtop roof. This particular example had been exclusively serviced with Mercedes-Benz main dealers until 2021 and 48,520 miles at which point, due to over vendors illness, the mileage year on year fell and a local garage took on servicing, maintenance and MoT's for which invoices can be found in the history file. This SL55 has an MoT test certificate until November 2026 with no advisories, which was obtained shortly after a minor service this autumn.

Offered with a comprehensive history file, original backpack and two working keys. Described by the owner of an SL55, Jeremy Clarkson, as the 'Swiss army knife' of the car world, he said: 'It's a top down funster, a long-distance cruiser, a muscle car, a Messerschmitt, pose mobile.' Collectable, practical, fun, impressive and comfortable….. what other modern classic can offer all of this and in this package with low mileage, it is a very attractive proposition! Consigned by Mathew Priddy.

20/11/2025 TBC 51,285
02/07/2024 Hall Grove 50,945
10/07/2023 Hall Grove 50,270
10/12/2021 Mercedes Benz Ascot 48,520
12/07/2018 Mercedes Benz Ascot 46,395
10/06/2013 Mercedes Benz Ascot 41,962
07/06/2011 Mercedes Benz Ascot 37,285
23/07/2008 Mercedes Benz Ascot 29,563
30/04/2004 PDI Mercedes-Benz 00,000

Lot details
Year: 2004
Make: Mercedes-Benz
Model: SL55 AMG Kompressor
Registration: EX04 RXP
Chassis No: WDB2304742F079124
Odometer: 51,325

* Recently serviced
* Low mileage low owner example