A standard R230 Mercedes has plenty of presence, but ‘J900 SNO’ has a notably more muscular look still, thanks to the fitment of Lorinser front and rear spoilers and side skirts, Riva five-spoke alloy wheels shod with suitably low-profile tyres, and a Remus sports exhaust system. The Benz has apparently been in storage for the last three years, but will have a fresh MOT in time for the sale. The vendor informs us that the car ‘starts and runs reliably’ and that its ABC suspension (that can be a problem on this model) ‘works well’, as does the roof mechanism. He presently regards the V8 engine and automatic transmission as ‘excellent’, the grey leather upholstery as ‘good’, and the bodywork and silver paintwork as ‘average to good’. He is now offering this eye-catching SL complete with tracker, cherished registration (‘J900 SNO’), a pair of keys and partial service history, plus a comprehensive file of old MOTs, invoices etc.

The landmark 300 of 1954 and the ensuing 190 comprised the first generation of Mercedes-Benz’s iconic SL models. The much-loved second generation (W113) began with the 230 of 1963 and was distinguished by a distinctive optional hardtop that earned the model its nickname of ‘Pagoda top’. The apparently everlasting, larger, third model (R107) was followed by the R129 Series. Launched at the Geneva Salon of 1989, it was based on a shortened version of the W124 floorpan and bristled with technical refinement and innovative safety features. Next up was the R230 Series that was in production from 2001 to 2011 with a range of engines from a 3.7-litre 245bhp V6 to a thumping 6-litre V12 of no less than 604bhp, and most notable for its retractable hardtop and active body control. A total of 169,433 R230s were manufactured all told, the most popular version of which was the SL500, of which 100,000 units were made.

In summary:

• An eye-catching six-keeper, 63,970-mile example
• Equipped with Lorinser body pack, Riva wheels and Remus exhaust
• Comes with a sizeable history file and 12 months MOT