R230 (2002 to 2011)

The Mercedes-Benz SL R230 was produced from 2002 to 2011 and marked a major technological shift for the SL-Class, replacing the R129 with a far more modern, performance-oriented grand tourer. Introduced at the 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show, the R230 debuted with features such as the electrically folding metal Vario Roof, Active Body Control (ABC) suspension, and a strong focus on V8 and V12 performance. The range expanded to include variants such as the SL350, SL500/SL550, SL600, and high-performance models like the SL55 AMG, SL63 AMG, SL65 AMG, and the extreme SL65 AMG Black Series, one of the most powerful road cars of its era. Built in approximately 169,000 examples worldwide, the R230 was refreshed in 2006 and 2008 before being replaced by the R231 in 2012. In the Australian market, the R230 is valued for its blend of luxury and serious performance, with strong interest in V8, V12, and AMG variants, while well-maintained examples with documented ABC servicing remain the most desirable.

The Mercedes-Benz SL R230 was produced from 2002 to 2011 and marked a major technological shift for the SL-Class, replacing the R129 with a far more modern, performance-oriented grand tourer. Introduced at the 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show, the R230 debuted with features such as the electrically folding metal Vario Roof, Active Body Control (ABC) suspension, and a strong focus on V8 and V12 performance. The range expanded to include variants such as the SL350, SL500/SL550, SL600, and high-performanc… Read more