2002 Mercedes-Benz SL 5.0L Petrol · AX02 AVE

The vehicle presents a stable roadworthiness profile, showing a consistent pass record over the last three years. Following a failure in May 2022, the Mercedes-Benz has cleared three consecutive annual MOT tests without any recorded defects. The most recent test on May 25 2024 at 91,402 miles returned no failures, indicating that the mechanical and safety systems are currently meeting the required UK roadworthiness standards. The mileage pattern is exceptionally low for a 24-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 3,800 miles per annum. The data shows steady but minimal usage, with only 4,000 miles covered between May 2022 and 2023, and just 1,100 miles recorded between 2023 and 2024. While low mileage generally suggests less wear on drivetrain components and engine internals, it often leads to the degradation of rubber-based components, seals, and fluid chemistry due to the vehicle sitting stationary for long periods between tests. Despite the clean recent history, a buyer must scrutinise the specific vulnerabilities common to low-mileage classic SL models. The inspection should focus on structural integrity, specifically checking for corrosion in the sills and wheel arches where moisture often accumulates on older cars. Given the low usage, the buyer should inspect suspension bushes and rubber boots for cracking or perished, as well as checking brake calipers for seizing or corroded discs. Testing for fluid leaks is also vital, as age-driven seal failure is more likely than mileage-driven wear in this context.