2003 Mercedes-Benz SL500 (R230) 5.0l V8
Sold for
£7,000
Ended 1 Oct 2026
Data from Car & Classic, updated on 28 Oct 2026
- Year
- 2003
- Mileage
- 81,696 miles
- Gearbox
- Automatic
- Engine
- 5000cc
- Colour
- Silver
- Location
- United Kingdom
Specification
- Fuel
- Petrol
- Steering
- Right Hand Drive
- Auction house guide
- £5,900 – £8,100
Previously listed
Other auctions of this same vehicle.
This vehicle has been to auction once before
Description
Highlights
- Well-specified from the factory with 18" AMG wheels, and dual-zone climate control
- Extensive history file with receipts documenting maintenance over the years
- MOT valid until June 2027
- Recently ceramic coated
The Appeal
The R230-generation SL500 paired a clever folding metal hardtop with the smooth, naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 and Active Body Control suspension, creating one of the most capable grand tourers of its era. With its blend of open-air motoring and coupé refinement, the R230 remains a compelling proposition for those seeking effortless performance and year-round usability.
This 2003 example is finished in Brilliant Silver Metallic over Black/Anthracite leather and is generously equipped from the factory with 18" AMG spoked wheels, bi-xenon headlamps, heated seats, and burred walnut veneer trim. The odometer indicates 81,696 miles, and the car comes with an extensive collection of receipts documenting its upkeep.
The ABC pump was reportedly replaced in 2017 at approximately 70,000 miles. Since being acquired by the current keeper in 2023, the car has been dry stored, and has reportedly received a new alternator and two new batteries. A sports exhaust has been fitted, which the vendor describes as producing a "fantastic rumble." The exterior has been ceramic coated, and the vendor reports the car as clean and tidy throughout, with everything inside in working order. With a long MOT, this SL500 presents a fine opportunity to enjoy one of Mercedes-Benz's most accomplished roadsters.
Key Information
- Mileage: 81,696 miles (indicated)
- Country of registration: United Kingdom
- MOT status: valid until June 2027
- Technical specs: 5.0L V8 (M113, 302 hp)
- Paperwork: V5C, MOT certificates and various invoices present
The Detail
- ABC pump replaced at approximately 70,000 miles, we are told
- New alternator and two new batteries said to have been fitted during current ownership
- Sports exhaust fitted
- Dry stored since 2023
- 1 key
- The vendor states the car is clean and tidy all round
- The vendor reports all interior functions are in working order
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.
✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection
or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.
✓ Unless stated otherwise, you must assume that any cherished, personalised, or heritage vehicle registration is not included in the sale of a vehicle.
Comparable sales
Sold prices from auctions that ended in the last 24 months. Chart shows the last 12 months. The latest 25 sales carry details. Prices in GBP.
Median sold price
£8,500
Sold range
£1,299 – £66,375
Sold lots
67
Price trend
Rising
Sold 18% below the R230 median

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£7,000Not sold
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