Model History

Designed and built as a grand tourer the SL was first introduced in 1954. The designation SL derives from the German "Sport Lightweight" and was first applied to the 300SL Gullwing. The SL model range is still in production today and has spanned five generations of models from 1954 to the present day.

The R129, as featured here, is the fourth generation of SL and was built from 1989-2002. Featuring a shorter wheelbase and updated rear suspension over its predecessor, the R107, the R129 was quick to introduce model updates and featured a large amount of styling, mechanical, and technological updates over its 12 year life span.

The R129 shot to the public's attention in 1991 when Diana, Princess of Wales sold her Jaguar to purchase a 500SL. This sparked a media storm as this was the first time a member of the royal family had chosen a foreign car. The media questioned whether British royalty should be driving foreign cars and eventually due to pressure she was forced to return the car to Mercedes-Benz in 1992. The car now features in the Mercedes-Benz Museum.

Equipment

Brilliant Silver Metallic paintwork, Anthracite Leather upholstery, Folding rear seats, Electric-folding soft-top in black, Removable aluminium hardtop in Brilliant Silver Metallic, Eight-hole alloy wheels, Four-speed automatic transmission, Electrically adjustable front seats, Electrically adjustable steering wheel, Mercedes ‘Masterpiece’ leather gear knob, Air conditioning, Kenwood CD player with USB and Bluetooth connectivity, ABS, PAS, Heat insulating glass, Mercedes carpet mats, Central locking, Alloy spare wheel, Wind deflector, Mercedes toolkit, Mercedes first aid kit.

Exterior

This early R129 looks great in bright metallic silver. Although not entirely flawless the body is presentable throughout with only a few imperfections to report. The car could easily be lifted to an excellent standard with some cosmetic paintwork primarily to the boot lid area, or it could simply be driven and enjoyed as-is. Having been replaced in recent years the electric hood presents immaculately and operates smoothly at the touch of a button. The removable hardtop, also in fine order, is the perfect accompaniment for those chillier winter months.

VIEWINGS WELCOME BY APPOINTMENT ONLY /// ADDITIONAL PHOTOS AND VIDEOS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

Interior

The black leather is in overall very good condition with only a small amount of expected wear to the driver’s bolster evidencing the car’s age. Other commonly worn or damaged items such as the spectacle box lid, centre console storage covers, and adjustable armrest all look great and present without fault. The walnut veneer on the passenger door has started to lift and there are a few lights marks on the centre console wood trim also. In the boot area you’ll find the original Mercedes tool roll, first aid kit, wind deflector, and matching alloy spare wheel. Please note, a Kenwood CD player with USB and Bluetooth connectivity is currently fitted.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

The 24v 3-litre straight-six starts without fuss and idles up to temperature smoothly. The four-speed automatic gearbox operates with ease and handles the engine’s power perfectly. Services have been carried out at the following mileages: 763 – 6,125 – 11,891 – 18,217 – 24,202 – 28,472 – 36,981 – 41,811 – 47,821 – 51,503 – 59,708 – and most recently at 61,200 miles in September 2022. The MOT is valid until November 2023.

WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES

The Mercedes sits on eight-hole alloys, all in nice original condition with only a few age-related marks visible on close inspection. They are shod in high quality Pirelli tyres with plenty of tread all round; the rears were replaced at 58k miles. The brakes have also recently been checked and remain in fine operational condition.

History File

This 24v SL was first registered in September 1991. Supplied new in Singapore the car boasts a complete supplying-dealer service history up until 41k miles. Since arriving in the UK in 1998 it has been driven sparingly in the hands of only four additional keepers, the odometer now reading just 62,080 miles.

The car has recently been serviced and inspected for the new keeper’s peace of mind. In 2020 the electric roof, central locking, and vacuum system were overhauled by marque specialists R129 Co at a cost of over £2,000. Other notable recent works include a replacement heater motor assembly, renewal of both front lower ball joint gators, an auxiliary belt change, and an air con recharge.

Enquire about this car