For Benz, with a new century came a new series of its long-running SL family – namely the R230.
According to Classics World in the UK: “Conceived in the late 1990s to replace the aging but still popular R129 SL, the ‘Sport-Leicht’ for the 21st century was designed with a 3D super-computer called ‘CAVE’, which projected full-size images via five projectors permitting close inspection of all surfaces digitally – a first for the car industry.”
The SL500 was one of two models in the initial launch and eventually the range included several engine options, all the way to a V12, plus AMG variants.
Most famously, it included a folding metal roof – a first for the SL series.
Under the bonnet is a 5.0lt V8 claiming 302hp, matched to a seven-speed automatic transmission.
This example claims $8000 in recent work.
Prestige Auto Gallery in Sydney is offering it at $42,950.