Lot 254 - 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL55
| Lot Number | 254 |
| Registration | DK03 TFY |
| Chassis Number | WDB230474ZF043244 |
| Odometer reading | 95,356 miles |
| Result | Sold - £15,000 |
- ADAIR kitted SL65 Brabus Black Edition tribute
- Bespoke exhaust and power upgrade
The fifth generation of the legendary SL series convertible sports cars 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 derestricted but, for many, the acceleration and top speed is impressive enough in its standard form!
The Mercedes-Benz SL55 is no shrinking violet but the previous owner of this car was not satisfied and wanted to attract even more attention. A full wide body kit was used to convert the SL55 AMG to a recreation of the later Brabus SL65 Black Edition with the help of a professional ADAIR kit. Subject to a light category D insurance loss in 2013, ADAIR used this opportunity to facelift the headlights and expertly replace the panels with the wide body kit. The car today looks every part its £280,000 plus sibling, a real wolf in wolfs clothing and is described by our vendor as ‘an absolute goliath of a car’. We are informed that the engine has been breathed on with the intention of achieving 600bhp, however until dyno tested this is still an unknown, but it certainly feels very close to that figure. The incredible sound from the exhaust is enough to make the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end making this an exciting car to drive and own. We are also informed only one genuine SL65 Brabus Black Edition car exists and is held in a collection owned by the Dubai Royal family. An AMG super-charged V8 with the roof down is a perfect motoring scenario and so desired by fans of the SL Mercedes-Benz. Offered with a MoT test certificate until June 2023, this stunning SL will turn heads at every opportunity and will be sure to do the same when offered on 26th November at the home of AMG Mercedes-Benz.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.