11/02/2026
SOLD. S0LD. SOLD. SOLD. SOLD. SOLD. SOLD SOLD
1988 Mercedes Benz SL500 (MY 1999, r129) 162,000km
(This took a while. I am still contemplating to keep this one.)
Proudly presenting this last incarnation of the R129 model, it can only be described as something special. Extensive history, with many invoices and a booklet confirming 9 services all done by Mercedes. Invoices for refurbishments of interior, engine and a complete re-paint to its original colour of metallic azure-blue carried out in 2022. The car has done low mileage since. The expenditure for all the refurbishments exceeds the asking price for this outstanding car.
This is the last update of the long running R129 Model from 1989 to 2001,which makes this model the most sought after.
Here are the upgrades:
1) The previously problematic electrical wiring was replaced
2) A very important change was the modernised and lighter V8, 5 Liter engine (switch from engine code M119 to M113). Now with one overhead camshaft per cylinder bank, 3 valves and 2 spark plugs per cylinder. Emissions were drastically reduced and its smooth running even further improved. This new engine was in production until 2007 and is regarded as the best Mercedes has built.
3) The perforated leather seats were replaced with soft Nappa leather.
4) This car has the expensive option of factory 18” Monoblock AMG wheels with 245/40 and 275/35 tyres respectively.
5) The new steering wheel design with wood inlays was another optional extra at the time
6) The door handles are in body colours
7) Tail-lights with curved faces replacing the square ribbed lights.
8) Instrument cluster now has silver rings around each gauge.
9) Xenon headlight design
The car comes with the factory fitted body coloured hard-top, wind deflector, leather steering wheel, electric seats with memory, 6-disc CD changer and a more recent fully electric soft top.
Tyres are Pirelli 245/40 R18 front and Pirelli 275/35 R18 rear and are about 85%.
The classic non hydraulic suspension is geared to those classy AMG wheels of the final face lift cars. The ride is comfortable and compliant with excellent roadholding even on challenging mountain roads.
The radio CD has been upgraded with Bluetooth connectivity and hands-free phone connection.
This Mercedes SL500 is more than just a car – it’s a piece of Mercedes Benz-Heritage. Solidly built, impeccably styled, and in such beautiful condition a rare find.
A$52,000 plus on road costs