1999 MERCEDES-BENZ SLK

This lot will be auctioned via Iconic Auctioneers, Online Auction - 18th November on Wednesday the 18th of November, Online. Estimated price: GBP 6,000 - GBP 7,000. Background:

Introduced in 1996, the Mercedes-Benz SLK (R170) brought a fresh approach to the compact 'sports roadster' market, combining traditional Mercedes-Benz build quality with contemporary styling and innovative engineering. It was built on a shortened version of the robust C-Class platform, featuring a double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension and its defining feature was the 'Vario-Roof', a revolutionary, electro-hydraulic, steel folding roof that transforms the car from a quiet, secure coupé into an open-air roadster in just 25 seconds at the touch of a button. The SLK 230 Kompressor was particularly appealing thanks to its 2.3-litre inline 4-cylinder supercharged (M111 engine) offering 193bhp and 207 lb-ft of torque through a five-speed manual gearbox or (as in this case with a five-speed automatic), offering lively performance alongside the refinement and everyday usability expected of the marque. Highly sought-after variants include models with the factory AMG Sport design package, which added aggressive front/rear aprons, side skirts, and 17-inch AMG alloy wheels.

The Car:

Finished in Brilliant Silver (744) over Charcoal Grey leather, this SLK 230 Kompressor AMG was supplied new in 1999 by the Mercedes-Benz Reliance Group and first registered as T432 VEV. It's been with its current keeper since 2000, with just one previous keeper and was lightly used as a 2nd car until March 2003 at which point it had covered around 9,500 miles. Its owners had a number of cars available and the SLK was used only occasionally, eventually being put on SORN in 2016. In 2021, it benefitted from refurbished AMG alloys, new tyres and a vehicle check and was returned to the road, however, it still received little to no use being placed back in the garage until its MOT on 21st October 2026, which resulted in a pass with no advisories. The indicated mileage when photographed was 13,820.

Service and Maintenance.

31/03/1999 - Mercedes-Benz Reliance - Pre-delivery inspection

21/12/2000 - 9,037 miles- Mercedes-Benz Reliance - Service A

26/03/2003 - 9,455 miles- Mercedes-Benz Waterhouse - Service B, including brake fluid, coolant, spark plugs, air cleaner, fuel pre-filter, fuel filter and activated charcoal filter

26/03/2003 - 9,455 miles - Mercedes-Benz Waterhouse- Additional diagnostic investigations and fuel pump replacement, supported by invoices

18/06/2022 13,801 miles - Mercedes-Benz specialist - Service B, recorded in the service book

The accompanying history file includes the original Mercedes-Benz service book, recording a pre-delivery inspection in March 1999, followed by services in December 2000, March 2003 and June 2022. Supporting invoices from Mercedes-Benz dealerships document additional maintenance and mechanical attention, including diagnostic investigations, fuel system work and replacement components. Also supplied are the original owner's manual and stereo booklet, all housed in their factory wallet, together with a selection of invoices.

Condition

Indicating less than 14,000 miles at the time of cataloguing, the car presents well throughout, with only minor age-related imperfections, including light stone chips to the front bumper and bonnet and a small dent to the nearside front wing. The black interior is described as being in excellent condition, with only light scratches around the ignition barrel. The original stereo appears to have been replaced with a Sony CD player.

With its notably low indicated mileage, well-preserved condition and accompanying documentation, this SLK 230 Kompressor represents an appealing opportunity to acquire a first-generation example of Mercedes-Benz's increasingly appreciated R170 roadster in sought after AMG spec, offering the versatility of its folding hardtop and the character of its supercharged engine.