I have a reputation for buying really expensive cars at the end of their depreciation cycle. I have done this with Aston Martins, Ferraris, Porsches, BMWs, and more. There is something amazing about being able to buy a car that cost more than $150,000 when new for less than $30,000. They still offer the best-in-class experience that they did originally for the cost of a mid-grade Toyota Camry.
The Pick of the Day is a 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG, a perfect example of one of these cars.
It’s powered by an amazing V12 engine with 604 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque, which is combined with an interior loaded with the very best Mercedes had to offer at the time and modern/classic styling that looks as good now as it did when this car was new. Combined, those characteristics make this SL the perfect open-top GT car.
I was on the press launch for the SL65, so I know from experience that these are truly incredible cars. On a leg of the event that took me from LA to Palm Springs, I was traveling down I-10 at around 5 a.m. My test car was a specially modified SL65 made for the president of AMG. Since this was a European-market specimen, I made the assumption that the speedometer was in kilometers instead of miles per hour, so I was cruising with the top down at about 150 while chatting with my friend Jonathan. All seemed normal until we literally flew by another car in the slow lane. Jonathan asked if I was sure the speedo was in kph and, of course, it wasn’t. We slowed way down to about 85 and made it to Palm Springs without issue. The fact that we were not aware of how fast we were traveling until we came across that lone car on the freeway completely explains what the SL65 is all about.
This specific SL65 is described by the seller as “the epitome of luxury and performance. Its sleek design and powerful engine make for a thrilling driving experience, while the spacious interior and advanced technology provide unparalleled comfort and convenience. This car is a true masterpiece, with every detail crafted to perfection. From the smooth handling to the impeccable craftsmanship, this vehicle exudes excellence in every aspect.” This is not any kind of exaggerations as these cars are that good. This is explained when you consider that in 2005, when this car was new, it carried a price tag of $182,720.
The photos in the listing show a car that looks to have no needs whatsoever, with the paint and interior in exceptional condition. The total mileage from new is 45,423. The car is finished in Brilliant Silver Metallic over a gray Nappa leather interior. Standard features include a Bose audio system, navigation (yes, it is a very dated system, but it does work), 19-inch two-piece alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlights, Parktronic parking assistance, heated and ventilated multi-contour seats with massage, and an optional panoramic glass roof.
Now for the best part: The asking price for this car that cost almost $200,000 in 2005 is only $37,495. Yes, these cars can be expensive to maintain, but there is absolutely no way to get more car for the money than with this SL65 AMG. The cars from this era were truly some of the best in the world and today they are absolute bargains.
Click here to view the listing for this Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com.
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