MERCEDES 500SL (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 32 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
81%
Total Tests (2024)
32
Avg Mileage
85,782 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,247
Is the 2003 MERCEDES 500SL reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the MERCEDES brand average of 87%.
At 21 years old, 81% of MERCEDES 500SLs from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 32 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 85,782 miles.
How does the 2003 MERCEDES 500SL compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 MERCEDES 500SL has 85,782 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 155,400 miles for a 21-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
How much does a 2003 MERCEDES 500SL cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
Checking a specific MERCEDES 500SL?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 MERCEDES 500SL
The 2003 MERCEDES 500SL is a performance with a 4966cc petrol engine. 32 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 22% of all 2003 cars for reliability.
With an average of 85,782 miles at 21 years old, MERCEDES 500SL owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2003 MERCEDES 500SL Fuel Costs
The 4966cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2003 MERCEDES 500SL?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,247 (£187/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 81% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
Buying a Used 2003 MERCEDES 500SL
At 21 years old, the MERCEDES 500SL is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. Note: with only 32 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2003 MERCEDES 500SL
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- BMW X5 (2005) 77% pass rate (-4%) from 11,188 tests
- MERCEDES CLK (2004) 76% pass rate (-5%) from 8,352 tests
- MERCEDES SL (2003) 86% pass rate (+5%) from 5,173 tests
- ROVER 75 (2004) 69% pass rate (-12%) from 4,012 tests