38k-Mile 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL500

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

The R230-generation Mercedes-Benz SL-Class roadster, introduced for the 2003 model year, moved beyond its predecessor’s angular look by molding its long hood/short deck design into a provocatively curvy masterpiece.

Under the hood, the SL500 version featured an M113 5.0-liter V8 that fed 302 horsepower through a five-speed automatic transmission, resulting in a smooth yet urgent six-second dash to 60 mph. Its high-tech Active Body Control suspension kept the ride smooth over rough roads. And the advanced Electronic Stability Program and powerful four-wheel disc brakes helped keep this deceptively fast machine out of trouble.

Its retractable hardtop was a showstopper, transforming the SL500 from a sleek coupe into an open-air roadster in only 16 seconds. Inside, its pampered occupants enjoyed the premium leather upholstery, wood trim, COMAND infotainment system — and thanks to the mesh wind deflector — conversations unfettered by wind noise. Motor Trend concluded, “The SL-Class has set the benchmark for what a premium roadster should be with its continued strive for excellence in performance, technology, safety, and style.”

Showing approximately 38,400 miles, this SL500 was registered in New Mexico and routinely serviced at Mercedes-Benz of Beverly Hills before a new owner took it to South Carolina in 2018. It is finished in Obsidian Black and swathed in Black/Anthracite leather with complementary burled walnut trim. It has been optioned with Bi-Xenon headlights, Parktronic, COMAND infotainment, and the Bose premium sound system with a CD changer.

Recent service includes replacement of the crankshaft sensor, right front air strut, a roof hydraulic cylinder, and C-pillars.

This 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL500 is now offered at no reserve with a clean CARFAX Vehicle History Report and a clean South Carolina title in the seller's name.

Highlights

• First-year R230 with 38,000 miles

• Finished in Obsidian Black with Black/Anthracite leather interior

• Power retractable hardtop

• 17” wheels

• 5.0-liter M113 24-valve V8

• 5-speed automatic transmission

• Clean CARFAX Vehicle History Report

Factory Equipment

Factory equipment highlights include:

• 200A – Leather

• 220 – Parktronic

• 352 – COMAND

• 404 – Multi-Contour Seat, Front Left

• 405 – Multi-Contour Seat, Front Right

• 487 – ABC Suspension (Active Body Control)

• 614 – Bi-Xenon Headlamps

• 731 – Trim Pieces - Wood Burled Walnut Veneer

• 810 – Bose Premium Sound System

• 819 – MPS (Multi-disc) CD Changer

• 875 – Heated Screen Wash System

Servicing & Documentation

• According to the seller, the following service has been performed:

  • March 2014: Trunk lid supports

  • September 2015: Front brake rotors and shift lever assembly

  • June 2021: Right front air strut

  • September 2021: Crank sensor

  • August 2022: Roof hydraulic cylinder

  • October 2022: Rear C-pillars

• Clean CARFAX Vehicle History Report

Known Imperfections

• Crack in the driver side seat base

• Images detailing the condition of the 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL500 are presented in the gallery

• Tires may need to be replaced due to age

• The included clean CARFAX Vehicle History Report lists a mileage inconsistency when the April 2025 reported odometer reading from the South Carolina Motor Vehicle Department said 38,850, but the current shown mileage as cataloged is 38,330. This is believed to be a clerical error.

Ownership History

The accompanying clean CARFAX Vehicle History Report lists registration history in New Mexico and South Carolina.