2004 Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG

“Cheap” isn’t a word people usually associate with Mercedes-Benz automobiles. Solidly built and beautifully crafted with luxury appointments and powerful performance, they are renowned for bestowing coveted status and commanding high sticker prices.

However, many used Mercedes-Benz models in Japan are currently downright cheap. This head-turning 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG, for example, was recently exported from Japan for a mere fraction of its original asking price.

Supercharged with a roaring 5.5-liter V8 engine, it rockets from zero to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds and hits an electronically limited 250 km/h (155 mph). With the restrictor removed or AMG’s optional governor bypassing chip installed, the maximum speed rises to 300 km/h (186 mph). How’s that for traveling fast?

In contrast, the standard SL500 from which the AMG was derived hits 60 mph in about 5.8 seconds. AMG upped displacement from 5.0 to 5.5 liters, added a supercharger, raised horsepower from 302 to 494 hp and boosted torque from 340 to 520 pound-feet for a dramatic difference in engine performance that leaves the SL500 in the dust.

Stability control, wide 18-inch tires and a smooth five-speed automatic transmission help drivers handle the power with so much comfort and grace that periodic glances at the speedometer are advised. Luxury is heightened by heated seats and brushed aluminum accents in a gorgeous red and black leather interior.

This used Mercedes-Benz AMG is just a taste of what is available in the massive Japanese used car market where used car auctions and used car dealers are catering more and more to smart-shopping Mercedes-Benz lovers around the world. In the last few months alone, Japan Car Direct exported a number of used Mercedes-Benz models including the SL55 AMG above and four models below.

2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK320 exported by Japan Car Direct

Smooth and sophisticated, this used alabaster white 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK320 features a powerful 3.2-liter V6 (218 bhp) engine that takes it from zero to 60 mph in about 7.9 seconds.

2003 Mercedes-Benz S500L exported by Japan Car Direct

Streamlined and elegant, this black 2003 Mercedes-Benz S500L with potent 5-liter engine subtly communicates to the neighborhood that you have arrived.

2004 Mercedes-Benz C240 exported by Japan Car Direct

Advanced luxury features, AWD and 17-inch wheels meet the satisfying power of a 2.6-liter 6-cylinder engine in this handsome red 2004 Mercedes-Benz C240.

1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK320 exported by Japan Car Direct

This fun to drive silver 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK320 convertible produces 215 horsepower from a 3.2-liter 6-cylinder engine and only has 48,000 km on the odometer.

Whether you’re a Benz lover on a budget, a smart investor or a father wanting to drive your kids to school in style, there’s never been a better time to import a used Mercedes-Benz from Japan.

Why not contact Japan Car Direct today?!