Estimated Price: £35,000 - £40,000

AMG, the official performance division of Mercedes-Benz, has a long history of producing high-performance derivatives of Mercedes' standard production vehicles, and these improved versions enjoy an enthusiastic following worldwide. When the stunning SL55 AMG was introduced in 2003 with its 5.4-litre V8 producing 476bhp and a tree stump pulling 520lb/ft of torque, it was naturally assumed it would remain top of the range, however, AMG had a further party trick. A year later the SL65 AMG arrived and was the new 'King of the Castle'. It retained the stylish looks and civilised manners of the rest of the range but was powered by a V12 leviathan capable of crushing the competition at a push of the accelerator. The twin-turbo, 6.0-litre engine delivered a remarkable 604bhp which was tamed through an intricate network of safety features and keep-you-alive electronics. At 740lb/ft the torque output was sufficient to keep you pinned in the immaculately stitched leather seats, in any gear at any time, whilst the five-speed automatic transmission with manual capability provided a good level of control. New 19-inch dual-spoke AMG-signature alloys camouflaged the eight-piston caliper performance brakes and the suspension was subtly tweaked to deal with the general increase in numbers. Performance is documented at 0-60mph in 3.6 seconds and 0-100mph in 7.5 seconds. A beautifully packaged amalgam of huge power, sumptuous comfort and window-rattling noise.

Supplied new to the South African market, this right-hand drive example was specified new in classic Iridium Silver Metallic (775U) over Black and Anthracite Exclusive leather and built to an impressive factory specification. Options when new included the desirable AMG Driver Package, panoramic glass roof, Keyless-Go, COMAND navigation, premium sound system, climate-controlled multi-contour seats, high-gloss carbon fibre interior trim, Designo Alcantara headlining, Parktronic, Bi-Xenon headlamps with cornering illumination and 19-inch AMG double-spoke alloy wheels. Further highlights included Active Body Control (ABC) suspension and the factory AMG Styling Package.

Imported to the UK by our vendor and first registered here on 1st January 2021, the accompanying UK V5C records no former registered keepers. The history file retains copies of its South African registration documentation and export clearance paperwork, supporting the car's provenance and importation history.

Since arriving in the UK, the car has benefited from a significant programme of maintenance, improvement and cosmetic enhancement. The history file contains invoices totalling in excess of £18,000 during current ownership (£4,300 in April 2025), including substantial expenditure with Mercedes-Benz of Derby. Works undertaken include replacement of an ABC suspension strut and the rear prop-shaft flexible coupling, transmission servicing, brake fluid changes, replacement of both batteries, electrical diagnosis and rectification, water pump and belt replacement, as well as a comprehensive programme of cosmetic enhancement encompassing paint rectification, wheel refurbishment and ceramic coating.

The history file further documents replacement and coding of the instrument cluster by Mercedes-Benz of Derby in 2021 following concerns regarding the speedometer display. Earlier MOT records following import were recorded in kilometres, consistent with the car's South African origins, before subsequently being recorded in miles. The documented mileage progression remains entirely consistent throughout its UK history. At the time of cataloguing, the odometer was indicating 36,205 miles and the car's MOT history reflects its sparing use in the UK.

Offered with a fresh MOT until June 2027, this exceptionally well-specified and extensively maintained SL65 AMG represents an increasingly rare opportunity to acquire one of AMG's most significant modern-era V12 models, combining immense performance with substantial documented expenditure and single UK ownership since importation. We invite and encourage your viewing of this remarkable motor car at our BRDC Silverstone sale.