From a young age, my fascination with cars has been a constant companion. Growing up in Seoul, a city not particularly known for showcasing a wide array of unique automobiles, only fueled my determination to seek out and appreciate the hidden gems on four wheels. My friends and I would often explore underground parking lots after school, hoping to catch a glimpse of something special. It was during one of these adventures that I first encountered a Shelby Cobra, an experience that left an indelible mark. The way the dim parking lot lights reflected off its fender was simply captivating.
As I grew older and started thinking about my future, I knew I wanted to integrate my passion for cars into my professional life. Choosing to pursue automotive design was a natural decision. Currently, I’m studying in the Automotive Design department at the College for Creative Studies (CCS) in Detroit, a city deeply intertwined with car culture.
Moving to America opened my eyes to the accessibility of modern classic cars. Suddenly, owning some of these dream vehicles seemed within reach. However, as a student, practicality was key. I had to carefully weigh insurance costs, maintenance, and overall budget. This is where the 2002 Mercedes Benz Sl500 entered the picture. It struck me as the perfect blend of a modern classic with a powerful V8 engine, yet surprisingly reasonable running costs.
Beyond the practicalities, the SL500 is undeniably beautiful, especially as a hardtop convertible. This aesthetic appeal was a major factor in my decision. After a month-long search to find the right example, I finally located a 2002 Mercedes Benz SL500 in Firemist Red in Ohio. The drive back to Michigan was the start of my journey with this modern classic.
The “80s and 90s vibe” of the Mercedes Benz SL500 was a significant draw for me. It evokes the luxurious styling seen in shows like Miami Vice. Mercedes’ design from that era, both stylish and edgy, has always appealed to me. Furthermore, the SL500’s presence in 90s movies like Color of Night, where it symbolized success and an extravagant lifestyle, solidified my appreciation for this car. It represents driving a vehicle that was once the height of modern luxury and is now a respected modern classic.
My 2002 SL500 is equipped with the AMG package, which was standard for that year, and finished in Firemist Red. I’ve chosen to keep everything original, even the audio system. Despite being a daily driver by its previous owner and having around 239,000 miles on the clock, it remains in remarkable condition.
The car’s mileage doesn’t diminish my enjoyment in the slightest. Every drive in my 2002 Mercedes Benz SL500 transports me back to the 1990s, a feeling I cherish. The cabin is surprisingly quiet, even with the top down at highway speeds, allowing for normal conversations at 80 mph. It’s also remarkably smooth yet agile. Whether navigating corners or cruising on straight roads, the SL500 delivers a satisfying driving experience.
Some of my favorite moments with the SL500 are drives through downtown Detroit. With the top down, I can feel the cool breeze and enjoy the city’s energy from the comfortable leather seats. It fuels my desire to one day take this car on a road trip to California, where the warm weather would be a perfect match for top-down cruising.
Owning a 2002 Mercedes Benz SL500 has been a rewarding experience, blending nostalgic charm with modern classic appeal. It’s a car that fulfills both my practical needs and my long-held automotive desires, making every drive a special occasion.
