Supercar Fest Sale of Iconic and Classic Cars 2023 20th May 2023

121 + buyers premium of 12.5% plus VAT (15% incl VAT) on the first £300,000 of the hammer and 10% plus VAT (12% incl VAT) thereafter Arguably the world’s first supercar, the Mercedes-Benz 300SL Coupé was without parallel when it was launched in 1954, it was pretty enough for Hollywood actors and fast enough for racing drivers. Dramatically introducing Mercedes-Benz’ intention to dominate the upper echelons of the 1950s sportscar market, it was aimed at those who appreciate style, precision engineering and build quality. The gullwing doors were revolutionary for the era, never properly replicated by manufacturers since, and they have become one of the most iconic design features of any car since, helping to make the 300SL Coupé one of Mercedes’ most highly regarded, and therefore expensive, classics in today’s collector market. Inspired by that 1950s icon, the 2010 launch of the SLS AMG Coupé was claimed by Mercedes-Benz to be particularly special as they only produce such a car once every 50 years or so and there was never any replacement either planned or offered. A handsome car that grows steadily more attractive upon successive observations, the squat stance and long bonnet are indicative of extreme power, the gullwing doors are a beautifully engineered extravagance that eclipses contemporary exotica. The leather-trimmed cabin of the SLS provided not just the style associated with a supercar, but unlike any of its rivals, it also offered all the toys, with the tech usually fitted to the industry-leading S-Class saloon. It won the motoring press over with its blend of all-round ability and everyday usability. Pitched head-to- head with Aston’s V12 Vantage, Ferrari’s 599HGTE and the evergreen Porsche 911 Turbo ‘S’, the AMG’s depth of talent won the day. Rarely seen in a European sportscar of this era, a large capacity V8, naturally aspirated and engineered to perfection, the 6.2-litre unit is an absolute gem. The first V8 from the AMG stable to be designed from the ground up, the engine was further developed for the SLS with a dry-sump set-up and 120 unique parts and, in this guise, could muster a very healthy 563bhp. A superb engine, that even under light pressure rumbles and crackles like distant thunder, it is notable as the last of the naturally aspirated V8 engines. Mated to a 7-speed, dual-clutch transmission complete with a ‘Race Start’ launch-control system enabling a 0-62mph time of 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 197mph, there is a reason the SLS has a long bonnet. A worldwide hit, production ran to some 8,000 cars by the end of the model’s run in 2010, however just 250 were made in right-hand drive for the UK-market. One of the rare UK-supplied cars, and strikingly presented in Le Mans Red metallic, this SLS was first registered on 20th January 2012. From the era of contrasting interiors, the ivory and black leather trim complement the aluminium accents in a cabin designed and built to exacting standards. The rear camera’s feed can be viewed from the sports seats that have four-way lumbar support, integrated head restraints and an optional memory package. Serviced by Mercedes- Benz main agents from new, the most recent service was carried out this year by Mercedes-Benz Brighton, and the odometer reading at the time of cataloguing is just 14,865 miles. The history file includes reams of main dealer receipts for parts and servicing, an advisory free MOT valid until 23rd November 2023 and the Handbooks. The SLS has aged with grace, and could still be mistaken for a new model today, particularly as no true successor has been produced by Mercedes since. With an engine that will never be seen again, a low- mileage, UK-supplied SLS will only gain future admiration and respect. Lot 867 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupé One of only 250 right-hand drive UK-supplied cars and presented to auction with a main dealer service history and just 14,865 miles from new. Registration: SK61 DCZ Chassis No.: WMX1973772A004441 Estimate: £165,000 - £175,000 Consignor: Arwel Richards Telephone No: 07434 960868 More Details Lot 867 Bid On Lot 867