2004 Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG

A beautifully presented SL55 AMG that combines effortless grand-touring comfort with the performance and addictive soundtrack of a supercharged V8. The red paintwork presents to a very good standard and creates a strong contrast against the black panoramic roof, exterior grilles, and quad exhaust outlets. The colour appears consistent across the panels, retaining an attractive gloss and showing off the shape of the R230 particularly well. We did not note any major paint defects during our visit, although minor age-related marks and stone chips should be expected on a car of this age. 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 hi-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint. The bodywork presents very well, with the muscular wheel arches, sculpted bonnet, and AMG body styling giving it a suitably purposeful appearance. The panel gaps and shut lines appear even around the car, while the doors, bonnet, and folding roof all operated as expected during our visit. We did not notice any significant dents or areas of bodywork damage. One item requiring attention - the boot-lid struts. These no longer support the boot as they should, and will need to be replaced. We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our hi-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view at what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves. The leather-trimmed dashboard presents very well, with no significant damage or concerns noted during our visit. Aluminium trim across the centre console helps brighten the predominantly black cabin, while the factory COMAND system sits centrally above the climate-control panel. The distinctive AMG instruments feature light-coloured faces, red needles, and AMG branding. The odometer indicated approximately 48,001 miles during our visit. The switchgear, vents, and interior trim all appear to have been carefully preserved and are consistent with the car’s low mileage. The SL55 AMG manages to combine two very different personalities in one car. Driven gently, it is a refined and comfortable grand tourer, with a smooth automatic gearbox, supportive heated seats and a composed ride. Press the accelerator more firmly, however, and the supercharged V8 delivers immense performance accompanied by a superb AMG soundtrack. During our journey, the engine pulled strongly through the gears, the transmission changed smoothly, and the ABC suspension kept the car feeling controlled and settled. No unwanted noises or obvious mechanical concerns were noted. With the panoramic roof raised, the SL feels like a refined coupé; lower it, and the car becomes an extremely rapid and engaging open-top roadster. The glass and exterior trim present well overall, with the panoramic roof adding both visual interest and extra light to the cabin when closed. The Bi-Xenon headlamps, rear lights, and mirror-mounted indicators appear clear and free from obvious damage. The AMG badging, bonnet vents, side grilles, and four exhaust outlets are all present and help distinguish this from a standard R230. The electro-hydraulic folding roof operated during our visit and can be seen in both its raised and lowered positions within the photographs and video. Please view the photos and video below to review the condition of the glass and trim for yourself. The Mercedes is fitted with its distinctive 18-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, which suit the proportions and sporting character of the car perfectly. The wheels present well overall, although some light age-related and kerb marks can be seen around the outer edges upon closer inspection. Importantly, the car has recently been fitted with new tyres, giving its next owner additional reassurance. Please take time to review the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior, wheels, and tyres so you can make your own assessment of their condition. Tyres are a key safety item, and you should consider replacing any that are cracked, perished, unevenly worn, or over 10 years old. The electrically adjustable AMG sports seats are trimmed in perforated black leather and present extremely well for their age. Both seats retain their shape and supportive bolsters, with only light creasing consistent with normal use. AMG plaques in the seat backs provide a subtle reminder that this is the performance-focused model. The seats are heated and operated correctly during our visit. The black carpeting also presents well and is protected by a set of mats with red edging, which neatly ties the cabin in with the exterior colour. Please take a look at the photos and video below to decide on the condition of the seats and carpets for yourself. The 5.4-litre supercharged V8 started and ran well during our visit, settling into a smooth idle without any unwanted noises. Out on the road, the engine pulled extremely well, delivering its power with the effortless force these cars are renowned for. The soundtrack from the V8 and quad exhaust system is equally impressive and provides a major part of the SL55 AMG experience. Power is delivered through a five-speed AMG automatic gearbox. Gear changes were smooth in automatic operation, while the steering-wheel controls allow manual shifts when a more involved driving experience is desired. The car is due a routine service based on elapsed time rather than mileage, reflecting the limited distance it has covered since its previous maintenance. Please watch the mechanical and on-the-road videos to hear the engine starting and running and to see the SL being driven. The SL is equipped with electrically adjustable and heated seats, factory COMAND, a Bose sound system, parking sensors, and an electro-hydraulic panoramic folding roof. The roof and heated seats operated during our visit, along with the main controls and interior equipment tested. The air-conditioning is not currently working and will require investigation by the next owner. As previously mentioned, the boot-lid struts also need replacing, as they no longer support the boot correctly. The SL comes with a substantial amount of paperwork documenting servicing and expenditure. The available invoices and records have been photographed and can be reviewed in the history gallery. The odometer indicated approximately 48,001 miles during our visit. Although the Mercedes has covered relatively few miles, it is now due a routine service based on elapsed time rather than mileage. The car has recently been fitted with new tyres, while the important ABC suspension system is reported to be working correctly. The engine, gearbox, brakes, and steering also performed without concern during our drive. For transparency, the air-conditioning is not currently working, and the boot-lid struts will need replacing. Sean is managing the sale on behalf of his uncle, who is sadly no longer able to drive. This creates an excellent opportunity to acquire a low-mileage SL55 AMG with strong presentation, extensive history, and one of AMG’s most highly regarded supercharged V8 engines. We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check. We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, and 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 on 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 bid/s, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house. The SL 55 AMG is fitted with Mercedes-Benz’s Active Body Control suspension system, designed to limit body movement while retaining the comfortable ride expected from an SL. Sean reports that the ABC system is working correctly, and it performed without problems during our visit. We noticed no unwanted knocks, bangs, or other suspension noises whilst out on the road. The brakes also felt strong and reassuring, bringing the car to a stop without any obvious pulling or vibration. Overall, the suspension, steering, and braking systems performed as expected from a well-maintained example. The leather AMG steering wheel presents well, showing only light signs of use around the rim. The steering-wheel gear controls allow the driver to take manual control of the gearbox when desired. The automatic gear selector and its surrounding aluminium trim also present well, contributing to the clean and purposeful appearance of the centre console. Both components feel solid and are consistent with the excellent presentation found throughout the rest of the cabin.