2021-10-07
HOT BUYThe Mercedes SL R129 is among those vehicles on the fast track to becoming a classic and achieving old-timer status. Currently, the car is relatively affordable. That's likely to change once the roadster becomes a true rarity.
What does SL mean at Mercedes?
Between 1989 and 2001, Mercedes-Benz built the two-seater sports car as part of its SL-Class. About 200,000 units were launched in various versions during this period. The SL-Class stands for "Sport Light" vehicles at the Stuttgart-based carmakers, typically comprising roadsters and, to some extent, coupes.
Where was the R129 built?
The Mercedes SL R129 succeeded the R107 series in 1989 and was replaced by the R230 series in 2001. In the 12 years of its production, approximately 205,000 units were produced at the Bremen site. Today, around 33,000 vehicles are still registered in Germany.
Long development history - three model revisions until 2001
The Mercedes SL R129 has a rather long history. Development of the vehicle began in the mid-1970s. However, the project was initially put on hold as other models fully utilized the automaker's development capacity.
It was not until 1982 that attention returned to the new roadster. The design was finalized in 1984. The drive technology primarily relied on the engines of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class produced in parallel - six, eight, and twelve cylinders. In 1992, the first twelve-cylinder model was offered. Later, the more modern V6 and V8 engines of the S-Class were added.
Early models were still designated SL at the rear, such as the 500 SL. From 1993, with the introduction of Mercedes' class designations, the SL was moved to the front.
Individual numbers were assigned for each model variant. For example, from the R129 series, one can find a Mercedes SL 600, SL 500, SL 320, 300 SL-24, 300 SL, SL 280, etc. At first glance, this might seem a bit confusing. The roadster was revised three times during model maintenance:
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For IAA 1995 in Frankfurt am Main, a new 5-speed automatic transmission was introduced for the SL 500 and SL 600 models, along with a modified V12 and 5.0 L V8 engine. An Electronic Stability Program (ESP) was also available for the first time. The most noticeable external changes were the newly designed front and rear bumpers, as well as the optional aluminum hardtop with glass roof and sun blind;
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For the Turin Motor Show in 1998, the second revision was made. Here, the cars were introduced with new V6 and V8 engines with three-valve technology. A revised and larger braking system was installed on the front axle. New oval exhaust pipes, as well as redesigned exterior mirrors and tail lights, were the most significant visual changes.
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The last model revision concerned only details for vehicles built from 2000 onwards.
Now a museum piece - Lady Di's Mercedes SL R129
The SL R129 models were not "bargains" even in their time. Depending on the model version and market launch, the price started at around 100,000 DM in the basic configuration and could climb to over 200,000 DM for certain versions. By today's standards, these are no "small matters."
Nonetheless, the first models were highly sought after and buyers had to wait up to seven years for delivery. Among the notable owners was Lady Diana. In 1991, the then-wife of the British heir apparent received a glossy red Mercedes-Benz 500 SL.
She was the first member of the British royal family to own a foreign car in her private possession - a scandal! After criticism from the government, unions, and industry, the princess returned the roadster in September 1992. Today, it can be admired at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.
If you now decide to buy a used Mercedes SL R129, you won't have to dig as deep into your wallet as before. Moderately preserved examples are available for under 10,000 euros. For one in better condition, you might have to invest over 20,000 euros at the peak. An appreciation in value, once old-timer status is achieved, is anything but excluded.
Perhaps even importing from the USA might pay off. In our exchange for American used cars, you're sure to find a Mercedes SL R129 or two. Well-preserved - and especially at a good price. We offer you the highest safety and quality standards (for example, through the AutoCheck service when buying/importing US cars and ensure hassle-free transport and complete handling of direct imports!
