The SL has one of the finest cabins in the sector, and it offers a real sense of occasion as soon as you get in. The materials used are top-notch: they feel well-made and look like they will be durable. The round knob on the central console controls the entertainment and air-con systems and on the fascia there’s an array of buttons. It’s entirely logical and the layout is so well thought-out that it only takes a few moments to work out which one is which.

If it is comfort that you’re after then choose the standard suspension model, otherwise you will have a really firm ride and feel every pothole you encounter in the UK. The SL 350 is a better choice for comfy cruising, but on both models road and tyre noise is minimal. Thankfully, Mercedes has chosen not to rein the vocal chords of the V6 or V8 engine.

They both make a fantastic sound when accelerating.