I bit the bullet when the kids moved out and bought a pristine 2006 SL350 with 29k on the clock, a FMBSH and some great on-board options like panoramic roof. After a rigorous search (and driving 6 cars whilst looking) I finally settled for the car that ticked all my criteria and fancies. Have I been disappointed? Not a bit! Just over 2 months and 1000 miles later the SL has been everything I thought it would be: solid, reliable, extremely comfortable, beautifully thought through, great build quality and still exotic enough to turn heads. Driving it is akin to being cosseted in a luxurious coc*** of just you and the car and the night time internal lighting are really something to see. More like a cockpit of a jet than a car. Its 3.7L engine is solid and smooth as silk, the on-board electronics are enough to keep even a teen interested for hours and the roof down ability brings an endless smile to your face and can be used in all sorts of weather - as long as it's not tipping down. As for the frequently reported drips into the boot from the rear rubber seal, yes, they existed even on my low-miler but the fix is simple for any competent DIY'er to repair with ease. On the downside she's heavier on fuel than I expected but I can't think of a better way to spend the kids inheritance than on a permanently smile inducing special treat!

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500 SL

reviewed by nicholask on 12 February 2012

SL500

reviewed by JSMB on 22 May 2010