Highlights
- Rust free bodywork - having spent much of its life on Japan’s salt-free roads
- Very well presented interior, in great condition for its age
- Current Irish technical inspection, passed on 23rd June 2023
- Accompanied by several invoices for recent servicing work
- Roof mechanism in full working order
The Appeal
The R107 SL was always going to be a tough act to follow, but Mercedes-Benz scored a brace with the R129, which they launched in 1989. Featuring an innovative electro-hydraulic roof mechanism and styling by the inimitable Bruno Sacco, the new SL proved a great success, remaining in production until 2001.
Although a country that drives on the left, left-hand drive imports are considered something of a status symbol in Japan, which is where this V8 engined R129 was delivered to new. Imported to Ireland in September 2006, it has been cherished by just one owner and is now offered for sale. If you’re looking for a usable modern classic roadster, this beautifully built, well preserved R129 500 SL would be a great choice.
The History and Paperwork
- Collection of old NCT Certificates
- Current technical inspection, passed in June 2023
- All invoices for any repair work required to pass NCT accompany the car
- Originally supplied to Japan in left-hand drive
- Imported to Ireland in 2006
- Retains its import paperwork
- Single ownership since 2006
- The vendor states that a full service is due
- Supplied with one key only
- Used sparingly in recent years
The Interior
- Period correct Technics stereo system
- Walnut veneers in good order
- Automatic air conditioning
- Black velour upholstery
- Equipped with airbags
- Smart carpeting
- The vendor points out that the vanity mirror lids have become rather limp so have been taped in place - a common R129 issue
- Electrically adjustable seats with memory function
- One of the central cubbies is missing its roller blind
- Well presented boot space
- Minimal wear to the controls
- We understand all the switchgear and instrumentation to be in good order
The Exterior
- Anthracite Grey Metallic
- The vendor reports that the folding roof mechanism works perfectly
- Compete with hard top - also in good order
- The wheels are all in nice condition for their age
- Very slight bubbling to the corners of the hard top
- The badges are a little faded
- The tyres are in good condition although a little old
The Mechanics
- 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine
- Automatic gearbox
- Recent track rod end replacement to meet NCT requirements
- The vendor recommends a service as there’s no record of professional maintenance in recent years
- Reportedly running and driving very well with no apparent faults
- The central locking is not currently working
- An airbag warning light is currently on although the vendor believes this to be a faulty sensor in one of the seats
Summary
This 500 SL is in great condition for its age and has clearly been well loved over the years. It’s one of our favourite modern classics, so be sure to make this smart example your next acquisition.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
