The SLK 55 AMG was launched in 2004, powered by a naturally aspirated 5.4-litre V8, producing 355bhp and driving the rear wheels through a seven-speed automatic gearbox with paddle shifts. Car & Driver Magazine reported a 0-60mph time in 4.3 seconds. The SL55 featured the AMG body kit, 18” alloy wheels, lowered suspension and quad exhausts as standard. While keenly priced at £51,975 when new, its ability to deliver two cars in one – it’s both a laidback and cosseting coupé and a blood-spitting hairy-chested roadster – it was widely renowned as a highly engaging machine.

This absolutely stunning example of the SLK 55 is presented in Obsidian Black and of course boasts the handbuilt hammer of the 5.5 litre V8 AMG powerplant under your feet. First registered in June 2008 this car has had just four previous owners and covered a mere 29,450 miles from new, the first purchasing from Mercedes-Benz Manchester before housing the car in the South of France for the first nine years of its life. Specified with heated seats, Airscarf, Parktronic (front and rear) AMG steering wheel and DAB surround stereo system. An inspection of the car finds it in unmarked condition with every button and option working as it should, including the optional remote control for the roof on the key, just as it would have when it left the factory. The well sculped Gullwing bucket seats trimmed with Alcantara and two tone red and black leather boast the Mercedes-Benz air scarf technology so even on a crisp sunny day you are cocooned in a warm seat while enjoying the sound of the AMG engine and wind through your hair. A very good history file provides the original order form, nearly every MoT, all service bills coupled to the full book pack. This car has to be viewed, possibly the best example in the country, sitting on four matching Michelin tyres and has just been treated to an oil change service and MoT, although not due, so that a new owner can drive away immediately and enjoy. Consigned by Mathew Priddy.