Mercedes-Benz R 230 SL turns 25: vario-roof, V8 and V12 power, and modern classic status

The Mercedes-Benz R 230 SL launched 25 years ago, embodying the properties of a sporty touring car in its purest form. With outstanding comfort, sophisticated performance, and a timeless design, it was equally suited for relaxed long-distance touring and dynamic driving. Its vario-roof, a world first, converts the vehicle from coupé to roadster in just 16 seconds using 11 hydraulic cylinders and 17 limit switches. Today, the R 230 is regarded as a defining Mercedes-Benz vehicle of the early 2000s and a highly sought-after modern classic.

Today, the R 230 is a modern classic, with many well-preserved examples still on the road thanks to high reliability and corrosion protection. The Mercedes-Benz MB-80 warranty package is available for the R 230 and its successor R 231, covering powertrain and electronic components for vehicles up to 20 years old with up to 200,000 kilometres. This warranty, the first from Mercedes-Benz that customers can purchase retrospectively, is available at authorised partners in Germany. Exclusive designo equipment options, a predecessor of today's MANUFAKTUR line, make certain variants particularly desirable among collectors.