A 2006-model, this SL350 benefits from the new 3.5-litre V6 engine, which now produced 268bhp and 258lb.ft of torque.

The modest facelift freshens up the car’s looks too while retaining its classic appeal, something many feel the 2008-refresh ruined.

Which makes this the sweet-spot in the SL350 lineup: More modern looks and a more powerful engine but without the aggression that ushered in Mercedes-Benz’s new design language.

This one is also completely standard, allowing the German firm’s design and engineering integrity to shine; while many think they can improve on the original, few do and to find one that’s been left as Mercedes-Benz intended is a welcome treat.

But then ‘HN06 XCW’ has been in the seller’s care for the past fifteen years, which tells you everything you need to know about its reliability – and how much he’s enjoyed his time with it! He bought it as a retirement present to himself, and it’s always been his second or third car too, so has only seen gentle use when ...