Description
H&H Classic Auction @ The Imperial War Museum, Duxford/ Cambridgeshire
9th October, 2024 13:00
1990 Mercedes-Benz 500SL-32
No Reserve
Registration No: H23 MRU
Chassis No: WDB1290662F009394
MOT: None
UK-supplied, right-hand drive, 500SL
123, 000 recorded miles and only two former keepers
Supplied with a body-coloured hardtop
The fourth generation of Mercedes-Benz’s much-vaunted SL model (the R129 Series) was launched at the Geneva Motor Show of 1989. It was a beautifully engineered motorcar that bristled with technical refinement and innovative safety features. The specification included independent suspension all round (double wishbone at the front/ five-link system at the rear), adaptive damping, ventilated disc brakes with ABS, electronic stability control, integral roll-over bar, and front airbags. The SL 500 featured a 5. 0 V8 producing 326bhp, with 0-62mph in 6. 2 seconds and a top speed of 155mph. The model featured many innovations, including electronically-controlled damping, an automatically expanding roll-over bar, and a multi-link rear axle. In addition, there was a fully electric package of an electric roof, windows, door mirrors, and seats, making the ownership experience luxurious, stress-free, comfortable, and with easy to operate equipment.
First registered on the 1st August 1990, ‘H23 MRU’ was specified in the attractive colour scheme of Dark Blue Metallic paintwork over a grey leather interior. Unfortunately, little is known about the early history of the car due to a lost history file, however it is known that the vendor purchased the car in 2017 to compliment his collection and has remained in dry storage since.
Today, the SL presents as a running project that needs some TLC to return it to the road. It was noted upon inspection that the mighty V8 engine was running well but did appear to misfire and would move the car along with ease for our photography session. The vendor has advised that the interior needs some work with the front seats requiring some attention particularly; but externally the bodywork is advised to be in overall ‘good’ condition.
Now displaying 123, 000 miles on the odometer, ‘H23 MRU’ is offered at No Reserve and would make a rewarding project for any prospective owner. Please note that the vendor is attempting to track down the history file but if it is not found, a new V5C will need applying for.
