Should You Buy a MERCEDES SL500? (Test Drive & Review R230)

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[@mohammadcheema7375]

This was the very last design that Bruno Sacco did before he retired. So it’s still touched by his design genius and will be a future classic.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Exactly!

[@MrMarko4]

I worked in a hotel where they did a press launch for the SL, all the journalists and test drivers stayed and took the cars out for the day on a set route. They each got given a print of the original design by Sacco and it was hand signed by the late Sterling Moss. I have one and it looks even more futuristic than the finished SL that got produced. Edit: want to buy it Matt? 😀

[@raven-jz6cv]

Bro im more into bikes all my life. Yesterday my gf went to pick her bimmer from a used luxury cars dealership. They had one silver of those in a corner ..absolute beauty . Dealer said it was his own car and is basically like new. And the idea it has a v8 underneath. Mmm

[@carminedepaola8018]

@@MrMarko4 I would buy it...

[@Rog5446]

Unlike most automatics, you get excellent engine breaking when changing down manually. For that reason the 5 speed is better than the 7 speed. If you've got the top down in an SL55 and you change down manually, the sound is wonderful. CAUTION. I took my SL55 to my local Mercedes main dealer for an MOT. They failed it on the hand-brake (it was stuck in the off position) and said that to fix it, they would have to dismantle some of the bodywork to get to the mechanism and the cost of that and reassembly would a £1k. I called my mobile Mercedes specialist, who does my servicing, and he jacked the car up and released the mechanism in 5 minutes and didn't even charge me. So I don't mind shaming Mercedes of Reading, who will never get any more of my business.

[@chriswasey4333]

That reminds me of my local jag dealer who charged me £200 to fix my cigarette lighter it took them 45 minutes to realise that a washer inside it was causing it to short

[@thomasm.7058]

I own a SL55AMG and i love it to shift down, the sound is amazing.

[@thedoo777]

The electronic handbrake was my most recent repair and I had to get new rotors and I opted for new brake pads Akebono are the best and they don't cost much more money! It cost me a little over $260

[@thedoo777]

@@thomasm.7058 Ever notice how these reviews are all SL 55, Sweet car

[@thomasm.7058]

@@thedoo777 Of course, it's a beautiful car, really nice sound you can hear it direct when you start the engine. The over all design is timeless. It's smooth and aggressive to drive together. Over all it's a really nice car, especially when driving open.

[@michaeloshea7360]

I've got a 2003 40k mile SL500..... I paid 11k and it's the best money I've ever spent....you were on point with your review....incredible if you get the right one....a garaged one is infinitely better than the ones that stand outside....

[@carguy1697]

That will no be like 13-15 grand good job! I’m buying a 04 with 70,000 miles for 12,000$

[@stefan5218]

one of the few modern timeless designs certainly

[@maxkazzora4234]

I will never forget working for the Mercedes Canary Wharf dealership in 2003, when this SL500 first came out. I made a promise to myself when I God willing win the lottery or get left some inheritance, this car will top my list.

[@brianrunning8922]

You’ve got to be the greatest salesman of all time. I can’t watch one of your videos without wanting one of whatever you’re selling. Keep up the great work!

[@johnpanaligan6682]

Trends change, class stays forever.

[@wackyrc1394]

Thank you very much! Awesome scenery to film and review this classy and beautiful SL500. And you keep it real, also diligently emphasizing the importance of proper custodianship 👍

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thank you very much!

[@jonathanfletcher9533]

I think the real difference in performance between the 350 and 500 is down to torque. Close to 30% increase for the 500 really makes a difference. Great review as always Matt, telling it like it is, warts and all. 👍

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks for watching!

[@Matt_from_Florida]

These are rare enough that they have retained their "baller" cache each time you actually see one on the road. They just have a 'presence/gravitas' and everyone knows it's something special

[@IIAdnan93II]

Great video Matt thank you very much once again. Really appreciate the very frequent uploads! Amazing car would be a dream to own one.

[@robbey300]

A great review again and having owned SLs can thoroughly recommend them. Bulletproof mechanicals but keep the preventative maintenance up and check water ingress into the boot area. Also invest in a reasonably priced fault code analyser which can pinpoint those issues on the engine management system.

[@LA-fr7fx]

Thank you & Merry Christmas.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Same to you!

[@mrmitch5054]

Excellent as always Matt Merry Christmas to you and yours

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks! Same to you!

[@robmurphy6077]

Another great one have a cracking Christmas

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks, you too!

[@raymonheath1436]

I bought an r172 slk 350, it is absolutely fabulous, 300+ bhp, smaller and lighter than an sl. I am currently on a 1500 mile tour round Spain and the car fits in all the tiny towns and parking places, it is fast economic and exceptionally comfortable. Having driven many sorts cars over the last 55years, i can honestly say this car is far and away the best smile permile you can get.

[@retepyam5858]

Excelllent and honest review, was very tempted to buy one myself recently as a second car but having previously run a 928 and a 996 exactly as you say even if you get a well looked after car they are still over 100 grand new so have a reserve of 2 k and keep that topped up and enjoy, also make sure you have good breakdown cover if planning long journeys especially on the continent.

[@wildbill8517]

Great car but when the ABC suspension goes its £1k a corner and more for the pump. The SL350 has spring suspension and is therefore the one to have IMO

[@jinkazamamonkey]

I drove a supercharged cl55 for 6 years from 105k to 135k, in that time nothing wrong with the suspension, everything else though......don't believe the forums

[@Biskawow]

@@jinkazamamonkey what happened? also its 55 amg not 500

[@molluscturtle]

@@jinkazamamonkey I had a 2002 SL500 with ABC - it was horrendous, nothing but faults, ABC alone cost me thousands. That’s not “a forum” - that’s me. I’d never touch an ABC car again - I’ve got a facelifted SL350 now - conventional springs, and really there’s no difference - except when you turn it on and it doesn’t lighten your wallet by a thousand quid, or you get back to it and it’s sunk on one corner (and if the steering was turned it’s ruined the wing/fender). Never again.

[@Garage_Distinct_Clips]

@@Biskawow no it’s a 500 look there is no amg body kit or badge or even the light , ect…

[@Biskawow]

@@Garage_Distinct_Clips the dude I was answering said he had problems with his 55, so I said "thats 55 not 500" meaning its not same car

[@tinniswood2577]

If you said it was a 2016 model I probably would believe it, still looks modern.

[@jackleonard2885]

I have had an SL500 from new in 2008 and have never had any mechanical, electrical or any other issues with it. It still looks as good as the day it came out of the showroom. It has cost me about £4,500 a year in depreciation but otherwise its running costs have been about £300 a year VED for the seven months I have it on the road, about the same again for full comprehensive insurance (with an £800 deductible) and annual servicing costs of between £300 and £1,000 depending on the service required. It has always been a pleasure to drive and the hard top convertible is one of its best features. The satnav is a bit primitive now but I have always got my phone if I need better directions.

[@imrank9264]

Thanks great review great commentary as always

[@HighPeakAutos]

My pleasure

[@thedoo777]

I just looked at your video again And you definitely have a way with words!Merry Christmas Matt

[@VishalGupta-od5mf]

I love these SLs. I drove one and is my kind of car. I enjoy watching your videos Matt, keep making more mate!

[@Atombender]

As much as I love the design of the R129, the R230 looks more elegant and modern, while still being well-proportioned.

[@IceMan-il7dx]

Gorgeous. Benz has truly designed some recent stunners. From a CLK owner! Nice review👍

[@con8v11]

Nice. Totally agree. Still looks the part and great value.

[@davidjewood]

I drive a CLK 320 3L V6 - I've found a great independent Mercedes dealership, I'm also a member of Mercedes Facebook forums, a great place for help and advice. You're absolutely correct saying have car fund for repairs. They will go wrong, but when they do you're fully prepared and it wont hurt so much. Happy Christmas Great content as always, Matt Thanks guys ...

[@alchapman1052]

Still a good looker and one for the person with a few bob. Good and interesting review. Happy Christmas.

[@maggygwire]

I love these and brilliant value. Great review 👍

[@Dino-qq2jp]

Used to have a 2013 SLK250 which I loved, obviously different to the SL, however I did consider buying an SL a few years back, ended up with a C230 V6 instead, 19mpg lol. Good video as always, keep them coming!

[@rogerb68]

Such a great vid, you tell us exactly what we need to know, thanks Matt..

[@HighPeakAutos]

My pleasure!

[@waterpowerspaniels]

All the Best to you and yours this Christmas May I take a moment to thank you and Hubnut between the two of you this year you have kept me sane May your channel continue to boom Regards Ste

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thank you for watching! Merry Christmas!

[@garymartin557]

beautiful car, beautiful soundtrack.

[@AnitaHandjob]

YES!! Thank you!

[@MikeWaldt]

Great review again Matt. Merry Christmas to you and yours Cheers Mike

[@jacksoncrow7662]

Another great video Matt! Thanks for keeping me entertained over this crazy year and have a great Christmas season!

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks, you too!

[@reality-cheque]

Thanks for the video. Lovely car!

[@falldog9]

Your reviews are outstanding. Thanks for the content and have a happy Christmas.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks, you too!

[@juliankent8875]

First time that I've watched that Matt. My son and I went to look at 6 series the other day and it wasn't the car for me. But there was an SL in the showroom and I couldn't take my eyes off it, to the point I took it for a test drive. I loved it. The thing that stopped me buying it was that I don't know enough about Mercs, I've been driving beemers for 20 years. Great video once again Matt 👍

[@fx02zbn]

Great Vid and thank for uploading. Really enjoyed this vid, Love the SL range, so tempted to buy one, but I'd rather wait for the right XK8. Thanks for all you do Matt. Have a great Christmas.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks for watching!

[@ghostdog4330]

Its aged so incredibly well. So many other cars seem to look dated the minute the next model is released but this one really does continue to look great. I wonder... A future classic?

[@HighPeakAutos]

SL's are always classics :)

[@mpfwar7369]

another good report matt..best of luck for 2021 youve kept us going cheers and have a great one

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks! Merry Christmas!

[@alanmaxted6215]

Another excellent review - and pleased to see it wasn’t raining.

[@HighPeakAutos]

I'm as surprised as you are

[@jjefferyworboys8138]

Interesting review, full of good advice.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks!

[@lestrem11]

Brilliant review, I want one.....

[@radionorthseagold]

i genuinely get butterflies in my stomach when i see you have a new video review

[@silvermovermedia9737]

I have a CLS500 and love it, I’ve considered the SL500 just concerned about cargo space, good review..

[@ZKhweziN]

Always thorough with the reviews. I recently bought an 06 SL65 with 42000km. Absolute dream come true for me. The R230 is definitely the last of the beautiful SL shapes.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Wow! Good choice

[@eamonhq7405]

Uff, the look of the interior is timeless

[@narcissistinjurygiver2932]

as a MB tech. I 100% agree with what you said. I got one of these cars from my client for 1200usd. I totally went thru it and replaced all warn out parts and the ABC system. Now I have one hell of a car that is in good shape. it is like driving a 90k usd car.

[@alanbstard4]

very nice. Merry Christmas and thanks for the great reviews throughout the year

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks, you too!

[@gizmo6164]

I’m crushed.........I’ve got a mini-disc player, Christmas time too, how cruel. Bah! Great review again. Have as good a festive season as circumstances allow.

[@HighPeakAutos]

hahah Thanks! You too!

[@deandakin3196]

Christmas Eve bonus when this popped up! Lovely car, cracking engine. Merry Christmas.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks, you too!

[@darrenbootland2316]

In 2007, they did a minor facelift to the R230 and also upped the engine to a 5.5L V8 putting out 380bhp. I had one and it was awesome. Sounded brilliant too.

[@malcolmgay2206]

That's the one to buy if you can stump up the few extra quid. You get upgraded brakes, auto, steering, stereo, gearbox etc

[@jamesk1806]

💯 Looks the part... Holds up against any convertible in 2020.

[@smarte.r.1450]

Another spot on review... please, don't change your format. The balance of information and humour aligned with personal experience is just on the money!..

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks! Merry Christmas

[@keithjones7876]

Merry Christmas to you and your family ,love the reviews , keep well and safe

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks! Same to you

[@DermotCarroll]

yet another super video! .... I need one of these, just to fulfill my mid-life crisis, which I am supposed to have in my mid 50s!! mind you ... I like the idea of those glasses that you mentioned in the volvo video!! ... imagine lenses changing tint on an auto basis!!! ;)

[@daveemsley6982]

I've got a 2007 sl 550, 5.5 litres V 8 it's the newer engine compared to the sl500. It's 385hp and 395 torque with the 7 speed transmission. I've driven it for about a year and a half (2 summers) and I love it. This is the first v8 I've had in a long time, v6s and 4 cylinder for 14 years previously. The v8 torque is so noticeable especially when you step on it when you're cruising at highway speed. It propels you to illegal speed so quickly, it's a thrill. Interior is very similar to the 2006

[@richardsedorski1206]

Another great vid you make these older cars very appealing the ones you have always seem in such lovely condition have a merry Christmas.🎁🎄

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks, you too!

[@mguuu813]

Well done Matt, Great vid as usual.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks again!

[@zone1hearing]

Excellent as always sir!

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@florianheiling359]

Very interesting! I've never considered the merc sl. But now I'm interested

[@dakaraii.aarons9567]

A modern classic for sure. I own one of these and I think you captured it well!

[@clivedalgleish5987]

Yet another excellent review Matt👍 SL500......So very tempting

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks! 👍

[@simonspencer3108]

You sell these cars so well in these vids. everyone ends with me thinking - perhaps I should sell my old Volvo and buy one of these SL500’s... ;-)

[@jamiesut5866]

Another fantastic review Matt!

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks again!

[@boydiedj3718]

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year when it comes. Loved all your vids this year and look forward to more . Cheers 🍻🍻

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks! Same to you!

[@donohoe71]

So tempted to have a ride over and have a good look at it, it really is beautiful. But in the present climate I can't unfortunately. I did sit through all the adverts; before, during and at the end!! So I want a medal AND a discount when I visit!! best wishes for Christmas and the New Year.

[@daviddenley3512]

Another nice car your selling, Merry Christmas and an even Merrier New Year to you.

[@honestrunescaper]

Sooo much better than the wet 350. This car is clearly a weekend car, no point cheaping out on a silly V6. In my view !

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thats quite right. If you're not using it everyday you might as well make it more special

[@brianmorrissey554]

Nice one Matt. Have a lovely Christmas!

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks, you too!

[@danielmarshall4587]

Cheers, lovely car and very good video. All the best for the New Year and have a good Christmas.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks, you too!

[@jamesk1806]

Definitely agree with leaving a merc from this period sitting there. Got my S500 back from specialist after 10 months (don't ask) and the dash was like a Xmas tree... After 2/3 days of driving she is now warning light free.

[@powerboatguy2308]

The suspension system in those cars are very suspect.

[@jonathanholley8043]

I used to own one of these cars and agree with everything you say about these cars pros and cons . Sadly sold mine last month as just had not used it enough to justify the running costs this year, however new owner is an enthusiast so going to a good home .

[@Steven_Will]

What were the running costs of these please and thank you? Did need to convert the pump suspension to coilovers?

[@jonathanholley8043]

@@Steven_Will I had the pump suspension repaired by replacing the pump and valve lock , I saved a lot of money by buying branded parts in Europe rather than UK and using a independent specialist to fit them . The engine and gearbox, mine was 7g tronic , are very reliable with regular servicing however the car is very complicated electronically and error messages all too common which have to be investigated. Insurance was reasonable obviously fuel consumption is high as to be expected with a V8 engine but depends on how you drive it. UK Road tax was in the highest band £600 annually. Would suggest you consider SL350 as does not have the pump suspension and running costs are more reasonable. Always buy one with full service history and with all the checks done regularly. These were very expensive cars when new and although are a bargain to buy used expect pitfalls along the way.

[@crazyfroggie6546]

If money was no object, yes I would have one. Its a lovely shape, and very very comfortable. The maintenance, insurance and running costs aside. I've only ever driven the sl55, not in anger as it wasnt my car, but wow what a car. Effortless torque and acceleration. Awesome machine.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thats quite right. They're lovely cars

[@Umoronz]

Very informative thanks

[@HighPeakAutos]

Glad it was helpful!

[@sir_ma-at_mons]

Amazing car, Though I’d still rather have the Jaguar XK which is more Beautiful, Faster, and Ironically more Reliable. I bought mine when I was 17 off of a Sketchy man in Florida, best bad decision ever.......

[@HighPeakAutos]

Yeah I have to agree with you there

[@arnoldsnodgrass2953]

Which generation of XK?

[@chriswasey4333]

I was just thinking that I have a xk also I don’t want to tempt fate by saying it’s been totally reliable but it has been

[@sandersson2813]

A 17 year old in a Jag XK? Your insurance premium must have been hilarious.

[@BMill1272]

@@sandersson2813 in the US

[@stephenhadfield7715]

Lovely looking car. Upstaged only by the stunning scenery. Best wishes for Xmas & the New Year in these strange times Matt.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks! Same to you!

[@jonathandilk5722]

Great review as usual, I went for the 350 as I was worried about coming out one morning to a low rider sitting on drive springs and shocks easier to fix, also agree don’t let battery’s run low I did and it’s a world of pain! Happy Christmas and stay safe.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Merry christmas

[@georgeachillea5946]

Hi there, I am drawn to the 350 as I have a 350 CLK and it drives great and like you have stated the suspension is the worrying factor, as a friend had a SL500 and had to replace the two front ABC front shocks which came in at £2000, for half that you could replace all of the suspension and control arms and ball joints and track rod ends. How do you find the performance and fuel economy as its a heavier car than the CLK.

[@eddievandergaag8364]

I’ve had one for 6 years, and it really is reliable but good maintenance is the key word. Driving this SL with it’s V8 is just a dream. The SL500 with the 7 speed and the 387bhp V8 is the one to have IMO.

[@mikaeljonsson4686]

I agree, it's a beautiful car! 🤩

[@theolddog5129]

Beautiful car the SL is - it is almost up there with the Rover 75 for design exuberance and driver appeal. Pure class when driven by the tall, young, handsome, discerning driver - especially in Rover's Connoisseur trim. 😂😂😂😍

[@13polidori]

Well thanks.Now the trouble has started.Was happy with my Diesel Focus.Now SL Mercedes,Audi A5 Cabriolet, Porches Cayenne and others are giving me sleepless nights.Not to mention heated seats.Will be watching what you have for sale.Great movies.Stay safe and may your business prosper.

[@orsoncart802]

Tough choice for the young man about town - one of those, or an E Class estate with the Bonkatronic Mattress option. 😁

[@HighPeakAutos]

Lol

[@lennyhuston5360]

I'm a big fan of those, and a good review 👋👍👍

[@vp5]

Absolutely excellent review on this gen of merc sl

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks for watching

[@flyme195]

Great cars! Absolutely brilliant

[@dunkyhut]

Bloody hell mate 83k subscribers, well done sir👍

[@guvna6520]

Beautiful automobile. Still relevant after all these years. One of the only roadsters a man can drive which doesn't mean you have your sexuality questioned, or questions referring to your move into barbering.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Hahah thats right

[@kevinmcauley7527]

Always worth remembering that just because you can afford to buy a car that once was £50k doesn’t mean that you can afford to maintain it for a couple of hundred a year. Lovely looking car though, will be a future classic.

[@paulnewton1410]

Thank you really enjoyed. Sadly don't think I can afford that type of motor but great to dream. Cheers

[@simongeorge7026]

My wife has a 2006 SL500 and its used every day (or it was until Covid). We brought it at 5- years old with 14k miles on it for £24k, a complete bargain as it's got extras like the glass roof as well. It's now done about 50k and nothing has gone wrong. You are very correct about the battery. The car has two. No issues with the main battery used to start the car but if you doesn't use it for two weeks you will find the aux battery will be flat and you get a 'no convenience functions available', among other things that means the roof won't open! Drive for 5-miles and they return. The radio and navigation are beyond unusable and just leave the voice control alone! It's serviced each year by a local specialist and it's no more than I pay for a BMW 5-Series.

[@colinkandagaigo1396]

Thank you interesting video.

[@mudskipper0075]

Proper big boys boy that ,looking at R129’s lately before they skyrocket....👍

[@donlaight5943]

Love these cars. Merry Chritmas anda a happy new year Matt. Or in Covid speak, Merry Crisis and a happy new fear

[@molluscturtle]

Another great review. I’ve had one of these earlier R230 SL500s and the suspension was a nightmare - constant issues, nearly bankrupt me. I’ve now got one of the very last R230 facelifted SL350s which - in my opinion - is superior to the earlier 500 in every way. It’s more powerful (315bhp), more economical (mid 30s on a run which is crazy), better electronics and no ABC. I love it - far better car. Oh and it’s got those twin bonnet bulges and the Messerschmitt gills so looks mental! I’m going to keep this one til they ban them.

[@montrocon]

It's cars like this make me miss England. You can get these in Canada but you can only drive it 5months a year I love my 2019 F150 but not the same is it! Great video have a great Christmas.

[@tonymiller3182]

Yep, spot-on with the comment about everything you have repaired on the SL500 costs a grand! Loved mine, but when the ABC system started to leak, it was a nightmare so sadly had to go. Oh, and you forgot to mention the silly, over- complicated pneumatic central-locking system with its pump in the depths of the boot where it sucks up water leaking from the hard-top & packs up...

[@Rob1Rich]

I don't think I've ever driven or been a passenger in a MB, but that car really attracts me. It looks and sounds great. only put off is the each problem is a grand quote. not that I'm ever going to own one but hope that doesn't make me a Nigel! Thanks for another great review/video as usual.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Haha thanks