Daily Pick: 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG

I have a great reputation Buying a very expensive car at the end of the depreciation cycle. I’ve done this with Aston Martins, Ferraris, Porsches, BMWs, etc. It’s amazing to be able to buy a new car worth over $150,000 for less than $30,000. They still offer a class-leading experience just like they originally offered at the price of a mid-range Toyota Camry.

Today’s pick is a 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG, a perfect example of one of these cars.

It was powered by an amazing V12 engine with 604 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque, an interior packed with the best Mercedes had to offer at the time, and modern/classic styling that looks as good now as it did before. The car is new. These features combine to make this SL the perfect open-top GT racer.

I attended the press launch for the SL65, so I know from experience that these are truly incredible cars. On a trip from Los Angeles to Palm Springs, I was driving down I-10 around 5am. My test car was an SL65 specially modified for the AMG Quattroporte. Since this is a European market sample, I’m assuming the speedometer is in kilometers rather than miles per hour, so I drove the car with the roof down at about 150 miles while chatting with my friend Jonathan. Everything seemed normal until we flew past another car in the slow lane. Jonathan asked me if I was sure the speedometer was in kilometers per hour, and of course it wasn’t. We slowed down to about 85 and arrived in Palm Springs without incident. The fact that we didn’t realize how fast we were going until we encountered that lone car on the highway explains exactly what the SL65 is all about.

This particular SL65 is described by the seller as “the epitome of luxury and performance.” Its stylish design and powerful engines deliver a thrilling driving experience, while its spacious interior and advanced technology provide unparalleled comfort and convenience. This car is a true masterpiece, every detail has been crafted with care. From smooth handling to impeccable craftsmanship, this car demonstrates excellence in every aspect. “That’s not an exaggeration because these cars are so good. That’s explained when you consider that when this car was new in 2005, it had a sticker price of $182,720.

The photos in the listing show that the car doesn’t appear to be in any need, and the paint and interior are in very good condition. Total mileage from new is 45,423 miles. The car features bright silver metallic paint and gray Nappa leather interior. Standard features include a Bose sound system, navigation (yes, it’s a very dated system, but it works), 19-inch two-piece alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlights, Parktronic parking assist, heated and ventilated multi-contour seats The chairs come with massage services and an optional panoramic glass roof.

Now here’s the kicker: This car sold for nearly $200,000 in 2005, with an asking price of just $37,495. Yes, these cars can be expensive to maintain, but there’s absolutely no way to get more for your money than this SL65 AMG. The cars of this era were truly some of the best in the world, and today they are absolute bargains.

Click here to view the daily featured list on ClassicCars.com.