2018 Mercedes-Benz SL 400 AMG Line

The R231-generation SL400 in AMG Line specification places Mercedes-Benz's twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 — 333bhp and 480Nm — into a retractable hardtop roadster body that remains one of the more cohesively proportioned two-seat convertibles of its era. This example has covered just 12,500 miles from new, which for a 2018 car points to very occasional, careful use. Full service history accompanies it, which matters for a car whose hydraulic folding roof mechanism rewards diligent maintenance.

The specification is well chosen. Obsidian Black Metallic over Crystal Grey and Black leather is an understated, purposeful combination, sharpened by the Night Package's high-gloss black 19" AMG multi-spoke alloys — the blacked-out trim suits the dark body particularly well. AIRSCARF neck-level heating is a genuinely useful addition that extends open-top use well into autumn; it works noticeably better than it sounds on paper.

Within the SL range, the 400 occupies a sensible middle ground: the full AMG 63 brings considerably more performance but significantly higher running costs and insurance, while the entry petrol returns little for its reduced outputs. At this mileage the mechanicals are essentially unrun, and the price reflects a car that has depreciated through its steepest phase while retaining a specification that reads well against the alternatives.