A firm fan-favourite for marque enthusiasts and drivers alike, the R129-era SL was introduced in 1989, and would go on to earn itself a reputation as being one of the last ‘over-engineered’ Mercedes built, with now-iconic design language by Bruno Sacco, and - at the time - cutting-edge technology such as ABS, seat-mounted safety belts, an automatically-deployed roll-over bar and more.
The 500SL (later renamed the SL500) was, for many, the sweet spot of the range, offering plenty of performance on-tap without the bank-breaking bills and running costs associated with the V12 models.
For those that wanted an extra slice of rarity, a number of special edition models were released towards the end of the R129’s life, such as the Silver Arrows model as seen here. These featured a full AMG body kit, two-tone interior, numbered and signed plaque, two-piece BBS wheels and model-specific Silver Arrows (code 777) metallic paintwork.
Offered for sale from an enthusiastic, long-term owner - who is only the third registered keeper of the car - in excellent mechanical order but with potential for some aesthetic tinkering to bring it back to its best, this is a rare opportunity to obtain a 1-of-100 UK-market Silver Arrows SL500.PO51YNY-1.jpg11.34 MB
History & Paperwork
V5 registered keepers document, showing 2 former keepers
Full M-B book pack
Printed service invoices - a mix of main dealer and specialist/local garages
Three key fobs
Signed authenticity certificate/plaque
In the current ownership since 2006
Around 100,000 miles covered by the current owner and his wife, the majority being motorway miles between 2006 and 2014
Limited use in recent years means a reluctant sale
Bodywork in good condition generally, but a few patches of corrosion to attend to on both front wings, along with a crease on the NSR wing, a light scuff on the rear NS bumper corner and a dent on the front radiator grille trim
The split-rim wheels are in good condition, showing only a few patches of kerbing and blemishes
The matching hard-top is present and in great condition, though there is a small patch of bubbling on the leading edge, and a couple of other small imperfections shown in the gallery below
Along with the hard-top, the folding soft-top is in full working order, and whilst the material itself is in good shape, the plastic rear windows require replacement
Slight fluid/oil misting noted on the O/S of the engine - commensurate for a car of this age and mileage
Latest service carried out at 147,169 miles in November 2022
The vendor notes that the recent service made reference to a couple of minor oil leaks/seeps - the owner was advised that these were not serious, common in a vehicle of this age and no further work was recommended. The car does not appear to lose any fluid or leave marks on the garage floor where it is stored.
One of the rarest variants of the much-loved R129 SL, this 1-of-100 UK-market SL500 ‘Silver Arrows’ edition is ready to be used and enjoyed by the next owner as it sits, yet still retains potential for further aesthetic improvement and tweaking, allowing you to enjoy the car for the remainder of summer, and then tinker and fettle to your hearts’ content over winter.
Being such a rare model, opportunities like this don’t come around too often. If you’ve been looking for a Silver Arrows SL500, now’s your chance; good luck!
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.*
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
