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1996 Mercedes-Benz SL500 racks up 75 miles and then sits for two decades

A 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL500 heads to auction with just 81 miles on the odometer after owner loses keys and leaves it in the garage for 21 years.

Jon Wong
Jon Wong was a reviews editor for CNET Cars. He test drove and wrote about new cars and oversaw coverage of automotive accessories and garage gear. In his spare time, he enjoys track days, caring for his fleet of old Japanese cars and searching for the next one to add to his garage.
Jon Wong
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1 of 6 Coys

After sitting in hibernation for 21 years in a garage in England, this 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL500 will be going across the auction block.

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According to the auction house, the car was purchased as a birthday present and driven just 75 miles before the keys went missing.

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The Imperial Red roadster with Mushroom leather interior looks showroom fresh.

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At the moment, the auction house says there are 81 miles on the mint SL500.

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The under body of the SL500 is spotless with only some surface rust on some nuts and bolts.

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Including with the car is a letter from the original owner confirming the car's story and mileage.

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