Chris Bass – författare

Mercedes-Benz _x0018_Pagoda _x0019_ SLs are cars that have the style and dynamic qualities that can be instantly recognised and appreciated 35 years after they went out of production. They are more practical than their predecessors, the 300SL Gullwing and roadsters, and more memorable than their successors, the W107 _x0018_Panzer-wagen _x0019_ SLs. This book gives you a ‘_x0018_warts and all’_x0019_ introduction to what these SLs are like to own, drive and maintain, plus a step-by-step guide to how to evaluate any example you might be considering. It includes 100 photos of what to look for – and what to avoid – plus a realistic assessment of running and restoration costs, and market values. This includes servicing and spare parts prices, and the relative values of the various models, specifications and vehicle conditions you are likely to encounter. Written by the Editor of the Mercedes-Benz Club Gazette, it draws on the experiences of the late Roger Edwards,_x0013_ a former Mercedes-Benz apprentice who spent his life working on and enjoying these cars. Including input from Roger’_x0019_s colleagues, who continue to run his company, a leading source of expertise on Pagoda SLs. The book also benefits from the author’_x0019_s 30 years of owning, restoring and enjoying old cars, and his contacts in the world of Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts. One of a comprehensive series of buyer‘s guides published by Veloce, it uses a well-established evaluation system, developed to enable potential buyers to assess any car they view. It is written in an easy to follow, jargon-free style and will equip you with all you need to know when buying a _x0018_Pagoda, whether you want to get your own hands dirty or just need to know what is necessary to supervise others working on your behalf._x000B_

The first generation ‘Sportlich, Leicht und Kurz’ – or SLK – was Mercedes-Benz’ take on the compact roadster format. Hugely successful from launch, and selling well over 300,000 models, it rapidly became the main competitor to the models of other major German marques. Offering a wealth of options, including a unique ‘Vario-roof' folding hard-top, supercharged four-cylinder engines, a 3.2-litre V6 version, and a high-performance AMG version, the SLK is one of Mercedes-Benz’ best known, and most sought-after, models.