Highlights

• Right-hand drive example imported in 2020 from Japan's salt-free roads
• Exceptionally low mileage: only 13,060 kilometres (8,115 miles) on the odometer
• Complete with its matching detachable hard top
• Comprehensive Japanese service history, with recent work carried out by a Mercedes-Benz specialist
• Advisory-free MOT was passed 21/03/23

The Appeal

Replacing the supremely popular R107 SL in 1989, the eagerly-awaited R129 was similarly lauded for its elegant styling, excellent build quality and impressive performance. Like its predecesors, R129 SLs are now considered classics in their own right, making excellent long-distance GTs.

As with any collectible motorcar, low mileage, impeccably maintained original examples are the most sought-after and this 1996 500 SL ranks highly on all counts.

Imported from Japan in 2020 and therefore benefiting from salt-free roads, this right-hand drive R129 is superbly preserved and benefits from regular maintenance. Remarkably, it's covered just 9,421 kilometres -  that's just 5,854 miles - which really sets this example apart from the rest.

 This SL500 is a great opportunity for any enthusiast or collector looking for a well-preserved and low-mileage example of this iconic Mercedes-Benz model.

History and Paperwork

• First registered in 1996
• Imported to the UK in 2020
• 9,421 kilometres indicated and warranted by the service history
• Recent work carried out by Mercedes-Benz specialist
• MOT test passed on 16 Match 2024 with no advisories and to be renewed by the vendor before sale
• Comes with English owner’s manual, hi-fi system manual, previous Japanese service history, V5C, a file of paperwork, tool roll, spare wheel, warning triangle, first aid kit, and two keys
• Car is currently held on a different registration mark and will be sold on the registration as shown
• Last service was 26/06/23 by John Haynes (Mercedes specialist)

• 8,367 kilometres  
• 6,573 kilometres
• 6,484 kilometres
• 6,483 kilometres
• 5,892 kilometres
• 5,071 kilometres
• 5,044 kilometres
• 4,960 kilometres
• 4,264 kilometres
• 3,155 kilometres
• 1,940 kilometres
• 1,378 kilometres
• 897 kilometres

The Condition

• A commendably straight example with no signs of accident damage or corrosion
• The paintwork looks in excellent condition overall, retaining a lustrous even shine
• The vendor identifies some superficial stone chips on the front end and slight scuffing on the lower edge of the front bumper - but neither detract from its appearance
• The interior looks in very good condition, with mild creasing to the front seats
• Four new tyres fitted in 2021 (Continental PremiumContact 2)
• We understand the cabin electric to be in good working order
• The Japanese-specification radio is unable to access all UK FM frequencies
• Both folding soft top and removable hard top roofs are in very smart condition

• Ruby Metallic (5720)
• Black leather upholstery (261A)
• Bose sound system
• Climate control
• 16" diamond-cut eight-hole alloy wheels
• Electric steering column
• Electrically folding mirrors
• Factory hard top
• Four airbags
• Heated and electrically adjustable seats with three-position memory
• Remote central locking
• Vanity mirrors

The Mechanics

• Naturally aspirated M119.982 5.0-litre V8
• Five-speed automatic gearbox
• ASR traction control
• Cruise control
• Later non-biodegradable wiring loom
• Expansion tank replaced in 2021 by Mercedes-Benz specialist Mayfield Garage in East Sussex

BEFORE YOU BUY