2004 Mercedes R230 SL350

MODEL HISTORY
The R230 generation of the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class was introduced at the 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show and 2001 Bologna Motor Show. It replaced the R129 and was superseded by the R231 in 2011.

In early 1996, over six years into the life of the R129, development work on a successor began. Design work commenced and draft designs were submitted from ten designers in Germany, California, and Japan. Hundreds of sketches were submitted and would form the basis for twelve quarter scale models which were digitized for computer manipulation. Design of the R230 would progress through two different formats. The real-world process centered on the traditional 1:4 scale models, with most of them initially being done clay. Virtual world design development took place in a room packed with state-of-the-art computer processing technology referred to as the “CAVE” (Computer Aided Virtual Environment). This technology was also used earlier on to design the W203 in 1995. The final design for the R230 was approved in June 1997 and refined into production specifications in 1998. Production began in October 2001 at the Bremen plant, and European sales commenced that November.

Equipped with a retractable hardtop known as the Vario Roof, the fifth generation SL was initially produced in 5-litre ‘SL500’ form. Subsequent engines included a V6, supercharged V8 (SL55 AMG), and V12 (SL600 and SL65 AMG). The 3.7-litre V6 SL350, as featured here, was only available in some markets. The R230 also featured Active Body Control (ABC) which offered the balance of comfort and handling; this complex system used accumulators and hydraulic fluids to regulate the firmness and heights of the suspension.

EQUIPMENT
Jasper Blue Metallic paintwork (345U), Beige leather upholstery (205A), 5-Speed automatic transmission, 18-inch alloy wheels, Electric-folding glass roof, Parktronic System (PTS) front and rear, COMAND system, Cruise control, Heated and electric multi-contour seats, Heated steering wheel, Electric-folding door mirrors, Bi-Xenon headlamps, Burred walnut interior trim, Bose premium sound system, CD changer, Heated screen wash system, Alarm system, Mercedes overmats, Spare key.

EXTERIOR
This SL350 looks fantastic in its Jasper Blue Metallic paintwork, a wonderful contrast to the Beige leather interior. The body presents in excellent condition with a deep shine and uniform colour all round - our studio photos really don't do it justice. Both front and rear bumpers are free from any unsightly scuffs and the light clusters remain clear and moisture free. The folding glass roof operates exactly as it should, rising and folding smoothly.