Mercedes-AMG SL 55 R230
The supercharged V8 roadster that redefined the modern AMG era.
- Power
- 476 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 4.5 s
- Top speed
- 155 mph
- Est. value
- $15k–$45k
About the Mercedes-AMG SL 55 R230
Launched in 2002, the SL 55 AMG (R230) was a landmark car for Mercedes-Benz, famously chosen by Steve Jobs for its lack of number plates and by Jeremy Clarkson as his personal car. It features the legendary M113K 5.4-litre V8 engine paired with a Lysholm-type supercharger, delivering a massive 700Nm of torque that made it faster than many contemporary Ferraris. The R230 introduced the 'Vario Roof' retractable hardtop and Active Body Control (ABC) suspension, blending grand touring comfort with brutal straight-line performance. While heavy, its ability to cover ground effortlessly and its understated 'turbine' wheels have made it a modern classic.
Mercedes-AMG SL 55 R230 specs
The Mercedes-AMG SL 55 R230 produces 476 bhp (355 kW) and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 4.5 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
| Make | Mercedes-AMG |
|---|---|
| Model | SL 55 |
| Generation | R230 |
| Trim | 5.4 V8 |
| Years | 2002–2008 |
| Type | Supercar |
| Body style | Roadster |
| Country | Germany |
| Production | About 21,500 built |
| Original price | About $113,000 when new |
| Engine | 5.4-litre supercharged V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,439 cc (5.4 litres) |
| Induction | Supercharged |
| Power | 476 bhp (355 kW) at 6,100 rpm |
| Torque | 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 4.5 s |
| Top speed | 155 mph (250 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,855 kg (4,090 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 257 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Mercedes-AMG SL 55 R230 worth?
A typical Mercedes-AMG SL 55 R230 is estimated to be worth $15,000 – $45,000 (about £11,000 – £34,000).
Its original price when new was about $113,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Mercedes-AMG SL 55 R230 rarity in CarSpot
The Mercedes-AMG SL 55 R230 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 19 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Mercedes-AMG SL 55 R230 fun facts
- At its launch, the SL 55 AMG was the fastest automatic car in the world, capable of reaching 200mph if the electronic limiter was removed.
- The SL 55's M113K engine block served as the basis for the unit found in the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren supercar.
- Early European models were officially rated at 476 PS, but many owners and journalists found the cars often produced closer to 500 hp on dyno tests.
