Introduction
Kulraj Singh Salh
The R129 in this configuration with the 5.0L V8 really does define the SL.
The R129 was such a successful styling job, the car remained in production for 12 years from 1989-2001. Packed with new technologies, this Mercedes is now also considered a classic but still looks great on the roads today.
Set in a spotless red with the ivory interior, this car really looks stunning and has been proudly owned by Glynn for the last 12 years.
This auction listing was written from information supplied by Glynn, the owner, photographed the vehicle.
Exterior
Boxy good looks, the R129 SL is firmly in the modern classic category.
Wheels and Tyres
The car has a full set of 5-spoke AMG aftermarket wheels that are in excellent condition. Although not original, the wheels are undeniably attractive on the sports convertible. The original 16" alloys also come with the sale of the car.
A complete set of 2008 Dunlop Sport tyres are looking very good. Around 5-7mm of tread remain whilst there is no degradation seen on them.
Bodywork
The styling enhancements of the R129 - based on the W124 platform - were much welcomed by us in the office when we were younger.
As you can see by the photos and videos, excellent care has been given to this example to maintain the car, clean bodywork on the arches and panel joins. It's common on this model for corrosion to occur near panel gaps, on this one there is some slight bubbling at the front of the off side wing near the wheel arch. Glynn informs us that it's been like this for some 10 years and hasn't progressed in to something worse.
Paint
The Signal Red paint, a colour the SL is familiar with, will turn heads for sure. As you can see by the photos, the paint is looking great across the whole car; even, correct and most importantly, shining brightly. The car was resprayed in 2008 and maintained to this day.
Take a look at the photos and videos for a detailed view.
Glass and Trim
Looking in great condition across the car.
Interior
The pre-facelift interior of the R129 was certainly the best looking, providing an assuring blend of luxury materials. One of the best interiors of the '90s we think.
Seats and Carpets
The leather ivory seats are looking stunning after all this time. The Nappa leather can sometimes succumb to quick wear when not cared for properly, however, this is certainly not the case with this example.
Red over mats have been installed, and the carpets generally look clean and tidy throughout.
Dashboard
The dashboard and centre console are in excellent condition. All dials look clean and colourful and we are assured by Glynn they all work as expected.
Unlike most manufacturers in the '90s opting for the faux wood option, Mercedes went all out with their flagship coupe and installed a luxurious wooden centre console.
Steering Wheel / Gear Stick
Another downfall of the '90s was some pretty poor looking steering wheels in some pretty expensive cars. Mercedes definitely had one of the nicer ones, as can be seen in the photos, the steering wheel is in excellent condition.
The gear stick also looks clean and well-maintained.
Mechanics
When it was released to the public, the R129 was one of the safest cars ever built. Even by today’s standards, it’s considered to be an extremely safe car.
Engine and Gearbox
A 5.0L V8 engine sits in the engine bay that could produce ~380hp when released. A well-cared-for example will stand the test of time, much like the one you see here.
The earlier models of the R129 came with 4G-Tronic automatic transmission. We were unable to go for a drive in Glynn's Mercedes however, he assures us the gears change smoothly with no sudden judders when changing.
Suspension and Brakes
Front Macpherson struts and rear multi-link suspension play host to a comfortable ride in the SL-Class. As you can see from some of the photos, the underside of the car remains in good condition.
The ventilated disc brakes look incredibly clean for the car's mileage, perhaps being serviced in the past to maintain the great care and diligence the car has had throughout its life.
The Drive
The V8 is an incredibly sturdy piece of mechanics. The R129 feels lively on the road yet comfortable on those lower-speed journeys.
The heavy feel to the car proves it to be a great touring car when taking on long journeys and is a great valued driving experience.
Electrics and Other
Being one of the safest cars of its time, in the event of the car rolling in an accident, an automatic anti-roll bar will flip up. As you can see by the 'Interior review' video, Glynn tests the soft top functionality. The car also comes with adjustable windows, mirrors and seats, ABS, hydraulic convertible top.
Glynn assures us that everything on the car works as expected. The only thing to point out is that the air-con has no gas in the system, something Glynn opted not to remedy as he only uses the car in the summer months with the roof down.
History and Paperwork
With an owner of 12 years and a certified history prior to his ownership, this is a great SL.
During Glynn's ownership, he has had the car serviced roughly every 2-3 years to keep on top of maintenance such as; spark plugs, brakes and gearbox. Prior to his ownership, a colleague of his used the car after it was supplied by the Ryland Motor Company who then subsequently serviced the car through Glynn's ownership.
Prior to this, the car was serviced every year at many Mercedes-Benz specialists in Bradford, Leeds, Nottingham, Leicester, and most frequently, Kettering. The car clearly has received great care over the years, this striking example will give you a lot of smiles per miles.
Glynn's personal plate does not come with the sale of the car. The original registration for the Mercedes is J248 ARR which is likely what it will revert to.
Service History
| Date | Type | Mileage |
| 23.04.2020 | MOT | 133,354 |
| 31.05.2019 | MOT | 133,182 |
| 17.04.2018 | Service | 132,700 |
| 03.05.2017 | MOT | 132,410 |
| 05.05.2016 | Service | 132,107 |
| 22.04.2015 | MOT | 131,394 |
| 15.05.2014 | MOT | 131,746 |
| 23.04.2013 | MOT | 129,566 |
| 18.05.2012 | MOT | 128,751 |
| 15.03.2012 | Service | 128,716 |
| 04.05.2011 | MOT | 127,797 |
| 09.07.2010 | Service | 127,458 |
| 30.04.2010 | MOT | 127,209 |
| 21.04.2009 | MOT | 126,675 |
| 06.03.2009 | Service | 126,621 |
| 03.05.2008 | MOT | 121,387 |
| 28.04.2007 | MOT | 109,194 |
Key Details
- ModelR129 SL 500
- TransmissionAutomatic
- Reg. Date07.01.1992
- CC4,973
- Mileage133,384
- ColourRed
- Interior ColourIvory
- Interior TrimLeather
- Chassis #WDB1290662F042865
- Engine #11996022024342
- LHD or RHDRHD
- VisitedNo - Self-Consignment
- Sale TypePrivate
- Owned12 Years
- Key FeatureCondition
