2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 350 (R230) |

Closed Auction- Unsold

2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 350 (R230)

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Mileage~98,022
TransmissionAutomatic
Engine3.7L
LocationNewbury

AUCTION CLOSED

2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 350 (R230)

Introduction

Darren Rungasamy

Automotive Editor, Photographer and Consigner

Mercedes set the gold standard for comfortable and quick luxury sports cars.

When Mercedes-Benz first debuted its high-end luxury GT in 2002, it was more than a showcase for the company's technological prowess. Loaded with state-of-the-art equipment, it was also something of a return to form retaining much of the sporting prowess that had been diluted over the years. A legacy that started in 1954, the 5th generation of SL, known as the R230 model, came with two engine options. The M112 V6-powered SL350 offers everyday usability, with performance close to its V8 sibling yet provides more sensible running costs without the loss of the SL’s imposing presence. That built-in sensibility and quality are complemented by the cohesive sweeping yet elegantly poised styling of the SL, with an aggressive stance the bold styling flourishes.

Notable for its revolutionary ‘Vario Roof’, a hard-top convertible which folds down in just ~16 seconds, this 2004 SL350 is presented in "Obsidian Black" with a grey leather and burred walnut veneer interior. It comes to market from ~3 year ownership and the car benefits from a generous options list which includes the desirable panoramic glass roof, "Keyless Go" and a 5-speed automatic transmission. Smartly presented, it comes with a good service history, 12 Months MOT, two keys and the last service that was carried out ~100 miles ago.

This listing was written from information supplied by Darren after meeting Mike the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Meet the owner

It looks great, the retractable hardtop, all the tech and extras makes it really special to drive.

Mike has always had a keen eye for distinctive cars and has owned several classics over the years. Tempted by the solid reputation and performance of the SL, he bought it in 2021 to use as an occasional car, not adding much more than ~3,000 miles since then.

This use has been steadily decreasing in recent years due to health issues, and as a result, he has decided to sell the car. Mike will be happy to answer any questions on the car in the comments section below.

Mike

Vehicle Owner

Ask Questions

CONTACT OWNER

Exterior
Interior
Mechanics
History
All Images

EXTERIOR VIDEO

Exterior

Elegantly finished in black with smart 18" Alphard alloy wheels, the styling remains timeless.

Wheels and Tyres

The car is fitted with a set of distinctive OEM 18" Mercedes-Benz Alphard alloys, rarely seen on a R230. While they are presentable, they do show signs of mild rim damage and light bubbling and would be ideal candidates for a refurbishment.

The Continental tyres are in decent shape, all were fitted within the last 6 years. There are minor signs of wear but all passed the MOT without any advisories.

Bodywork

The exterior is free of any noticeable damage, with no signs of metal damage or imperfections. The panel fit is flush throughout, with even door gaps. All doors open and close with ease, with both door glass drops working as they should. The underside of the body is in good shape, with no outstanding issues noted in the engine bay, boot floor or wheel wells.

We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our high-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view of what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

Paint

The "Obsidian Black" paint has a deep lustre and a consistent even smooth hue, with mild swirling noted under the strong sunshine. There are a handful of minor surface marks, in line with the age and mileage of the car, but all things considered, remarkably free of road wear.

The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these high-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

Glass and Trim

The glass is in good shape - we didn't notice any chips. There were minor signs of clouding on the lower corners of the rear screen. We also noted a mild tint degradation on the nearside rear side glass. The seals are decent, with mild perishing noted on the rear seal of the roof, and some minor damage on the roof seal above the driver-side door.

The headlamps lenses are slightly cloudy but easily treatable. The rest of the fittings are in good shape. The bumpers are well mounted and both free of scuffs.

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INTERIOR VIDEO

Interior

Well furnished with tasteful touches, the quality of cabin materials still entices.

Seats and Carpets

Both front grey leather seats present well with some wear on the driver-side bolster but otherwise free of issues. The seats come equipped with heating function.

The carpets are cleanly presented with no evidence of careless use. The boot was dry.

Dashboard

The dashboard has lasted well, with no significant damage or scuffs. A couple of the buttons have fallen prey to age-related wear, but otherwise, all of the main controls are in good shape. On the centre console, there are a few minor fractures on the burred walnut but not enough to distract.

The information console screen has mild surface scratches but is said to function as expected, the dials and binnacle are in good condition too. The rear cabin storage boxes and trim are in good shape, no issues with the condition of the headlining or door cards were noted, although the passenger side door pocket wasn’t opening on the day.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The steering wheel and gear lever are in decent order, however we did notice the steering wheel walnut veneer has minor fractures in it, nothing major though.

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO

Mechanics

The 3.7-litre V6 has more than enough grunt to keep you amused.

Engine and Gearbox

The cold start was free of any problems, the car firing up as the engine maintained an even and smooth idle. The dashboard warning lights stayed off and the exhaust remained smoke-free throughout our time with the SL. The engine is cleanly presented, with no issues regarding the ancillaries or hoses. There were no fluid leaks on the day.

The 5-speed automatic gearbox operated without issues, engaging gears and offering a confident kick down. Watch the video to see and hear the car in action.

Suspension and Brakes

Mike has informed us that the car has seen new springs in the past three years, but we did notice some squeaking that appeared to come from the front of the car over the uneven roads. However, it did become less pronounced as we covered the miles.

The brakes are effective and free from any issues, these have also been subject to recent attention.

The Drive

The engine sounds remarkably smooth when on the move, it was only when Mike carried out a forceful shove of the pedal that we were reminded of the sporty six-pot under the long bonnet. A surprisingly sporty and agile drive, It's also a comfortable car to be in, the luxurious ambience and quality materials add to the sumptuous experience.

The steering was smooth and compliant, with no vibrations upon braking. Mike told us he is more than happy with the reliability of the car over the three years of ownership, with no signs of problems with the oil pressure or engine temperature.

Electrics and Other

Mike told us, to his knowledge, that all the electrical components of the car worked well. The roof operation was seamless with a flush seal. There were no straining or hesitation from the motors.

The car comes optioned with heated seats, folding mirrors, Xenon headlights and "Keyless Go" system.

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History and Paperwork

This SL has a comprehensive service schedule and has been regularly maintained, the last service coming ~100 miles ago, and it comes to market from ~3 year ownership in a very popular colourway.

First registered in October 2004, the car comes with a good servicing record, with 15 stamps in the service book, the most recent service actioned around 100 miles ago.

Aside from its servicing, it has seen regular upkeep, with the owner pointing out that the springs, brakes, front calliper and rear shields have all been renewed over the last three years, but sadly there are no invoices documented this work. It comes with 12 months MOT, with the most recent ticket not flagging up any advisories. The car comes with two keys.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned an HPI check on the vehicle.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment of the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bids, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Service History

Date	Type	Mileage
06-04-2024	MOT	98,016
05-07-2023	MOT	97,857
05-07-2023	Service	97,857
04-07-2022	MOT	96,753
01-04-2022	Service	96,290
20-07-2021	MOT	95,106
19-07-2021	Oil & Filter service	95,106
05-01-2021	MOT	93,496
05-01-2021	Service	93,496
06-01-2020	MOT	88,512
24-12-2019	Service	88,129
16-01-2019	Oil Service	82,710
04-01-2019	MOT	82,555
30-08-2018	Oil Service	80,465
17-01-2018	Oil Service	76,755
09-01-2018	MOT	76,624
11-01-2017	Oil Service	71,197
03-01-2017	MOT	71,116
04-01-2016	MOT	65,896
01-2016	Oil Service	-
05-01-2015	MOT	60,162
25-10-2013	MOT	57,556
23-10-2012	MOT	51,598
24-10-2011	MOT	46,478
24-10-2011	Oil Service	46,460
29-10-2010	MOT	35,789
29-10-2010	Oil Service	35,789
14-10-2009	MOT	27,907
20-05-2009	Oil Service, Front Pads and Discs	26,384
21-10-2008	MOT	24,809
01-11-2007	MOT	20,901
22-06-2007	Oil Service	19,706
25-11-2005	Oil Service	11,016