1991 Mercedes-Benz SL320 (R129)

Vendor supplied images

Highlights


  • Low mileage example
  • Excellent history file
  • Outstanding original condition
  • Extremely rare Tourmaline Green paintwork 

The Appeal


Prestigious, solid build quality, with refined opulence laced throughout the cabin. The R129 generation remained in production for a full 12 years between 1989 to 2001, and for drivers of a certain age, it sticks in the memory. The SL wasn’t just a car, it was somewhat of a statement to ensure those around you know that you’ve made it.

The example we have presented here has been wonderfully preserved, with low mileage over the years showing a staggeringly low 57,256 miles on the odometer. Owned by the last keeper of the vehicle since 2008, and coming with a large stack of paperwork and service history, this may well be one of the better picks among them. Oh, and lets not forget the hard top is still present and in excellent shape! 

The History and Paperwork


  • V5C is present and correct, ready for transfer of ownership
  • Three keys available, all remote although one may require a battery!
  • Two former keepers from new
  • The previous owner kept the car from 2008 up until present
  • All original booklets including the owners manual and service manual
  • 15 stamps present in the vehicle service booklet
  • Ample invoices are present for previous mechanical work undertaken on the vehicle
  • Thousands spent over recent years over large service items
  • MOT is currently showing as expired on the 28th of July 2023 
  • Private registration removed - original registration is P627 GPA

The Interior


  • Lovely black leather upholstery, both front seats present themselves in handsome condition with only some very gentle hints of use with the usual creases - no rips or damage is noticed throughout
  • Wood and leather steering wheel in excellent condition, a desirable optional extra
  • Gauges all present themselves well with no signs of damage or wear, and remain easily readable with no fading on the numerals
  • Dashboard in good condition with no signs of any damage or cracks, and the centre console appears in lovely shape too with entirely functional switchgear and a JVC radio fitted
  • Gear lever appears to have the cap missing however this would likely be an easy and inexpensive replacement
  • Mercedes-Benz sill plates are well presented with lovely brightwork
  • Both door cards are in lovely condition with good leather work and well maintained wooden veneer trim with no delamination apparent
  • Carpets are all well preserved with no damage or tears in either footwell
  • Headlining of the hard top in excellent condition
  • Boot compartment tidy with a full-sized spare present 

The Exterior 


  • Exceptionally rare Tourmaline Green paintwork, presented in lovely condition throughout
  • Front bumper in lovely condition with minimal stone chips apparent
  • Both front headlights remain in good shape and are fully operational
  • Some lacquer delamination noted on the driver door mirror
  • Small stone chip on the offside front wing
  • All four wheels have recently been treated to a refurbishment and are presented in excellent condition with no damage to report, all shod in newly fitted tyres
  • All four arches are in exceptional condition with no signs of corrosion or rust - a rare sight on an R129!
  • Small scuff on the passenger side rear corner on the bumper
  • The paintwork on the rear bumper appears slightly dull in comparison to the rest of the vehicle
  • Both rear lights are in good health and function as you would expect
  • Rear spoiler present and in lovely shape
  • Factory fitting shut lines throughout the vehicle

The Mechanics 


  • 3,199cc straight 6 petrol engine, reported to remain in great mechanical condition thanks to the careful and attentive servicing over the years
  • Rear-wheel drive configuration
  • 5-speed automatic transmission, remaining in great condition with smooth and uninterrupted shifts
  • 231bhp with a respectable 0-60mph time of 8.1 seconds
  • The vehicle has reportedly had the automatic transmission system recalibrated
  • Roof ECU has been replaced and a new control module installed just last year
  • In 2021, a new fuel pump, spark plugs, catalytic converter, lambda sensor and fuel filter were all replaced, and Dinitrol applied underneath at the expense of around £1,500
  • In 2022, new window motors had been fitted along with an ASR pump, brakes bled and fresh coolant costing around £1,000
  • A large bill for a throttle actuator and gasket from last year is also present
  • Four brand new tyres have been fitted to the vehicle
  • The keeper is not aware of any problems with the vehicle

Summary


Originality is a hard thing to find - especially so well preserved, and even more so on an old Mercedes. Presented in a rather rare colour, with low mileage and an excellent history file, this would make for an excellent addition to someone's collection with minimal need for any intervention. 

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Vehicle specification
  • Year 1996
  • Make Mercedes
  • Model SL Class SL320
  • Colour Green
  • Odometer 57,256 Miles
  • Engine size 3199
Auction Details
  • Seller Type Trade
  • Town Middlesbrough
  • Location Yorkshire
  • Country United Kingdom
Bidding history
14 bids from 7 bidders
  • ma•••• £7,500 26/09/23
  • al•••• £6,500 26/09/23
  • da•••• £6,350 26/09/23
  • al•••• £6,150 26/09/23
  • ex•••• £6,000 26/09/23
  • al•••• £5,750 26/09/23
  • mi•••• £5,600 26/09/23
  • da•••• £5,450 26/09/23
  • al•••• £5,000 25/09/23
  • dr•••• £4,550 25/09/23

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