Launched in 1989, Mercedes’ R129 SL was an engineering tour de force with sharp styling and extensive use of technology. All were accompanied by a removable hard top which is electrically locked into place and creates what is effectively a GT coupe for the winter months. This example comes with the panoramic glass roof with retractable blinds that truly make it a roadster for all conditions.
Finished in a classy colour combination of Azurite Blue with Grey interior, this car has been with its last owner since 2004 and he has maintained it fastidiously, logging every single journey and fuel fill along the way. The records show that it’s been used all year round and it remains in great condition for its age and should have plenty of life left in it yet for the next owner to enjoy.
So if you want to enjoy comfortable and luxurious top down motoring in the fine weather, with the protection of a hard top for the winter, then get bidding now.IMG_7105.JPG3.32 MB
The History and Paperwork
With last owner, a retired General, since 2004
Previously registered to a director of a local dealership group for 2 years
Was imported at some stage with the reason lost in the mists of time but thought possibly to be the result of the first owner collecting it from the factory
Comprehensive records kept since 2004 detailing every journey and fuel fill(!)
Used all year round
Serviced every year
New rear windows in the soft top installed in 2013
Garage stored, with protective blankets installed on the walls to avoid damage to the doors
Wind deflector (stowed in the boot for the photographs)
The cabin pays tribute to the level of quality of Mercedes of this era. Although there is some patina on the seats, they reportedly remain comfortable and supportive, while the generous set of equipment is all said to be functioning (though the cruise control is untested through lack of opportunity). The only blemish is on the driver’s door handle where there are some indentations thought to be caused by a ring but it doesn’t detract from the overall ambience.
As with so many SL’s, the rear seats look to have hardly been used. The dashboard is very well preserved with no damage or cracking and wood veneer is all in good order, though there is a magnetic pad attached behind the gear stick obscuring some of it. The boot is very neat and tidy, with the wind deflector neatly stowed behind its cover and the toolkit and warning triangle are both present.
Hard top with panoramic roof and retractable blind, with storage stand
Presenting as dark blue in most lights but with a purple tinge in the sunlight, Azurite Blue suits the car well and the car looks very smart on AMG wheels. The paintwork is in generally good condition with a few stone chips on the nose and a small touch up on one of the wheel arches, though it would go unnoticed to the casual observer. Also for the eagle-eyed is a small crack to the offside headlamp which may lead to misting if the car is stored outdoors but hasn’t presented a problem to the last owner.
There is a small crack at the base of the front bumper on the nearside, likely as the result of an encounter with a kerbstone, and both bumpers look to have seen some paint at some stage, though in the case of the rear that may just be following the fitting of parking sensors which still work well. The wheels are in very good condition, having been refurbished at some stage and wear tyres with good tread all round, Kumhos at the front and Pirellis at the rear.
The hood operates smoothly and is in good condition, benefiting from having had the windows replaced in 2013. The underside hasn’t been inspected since the MOT test but the car passed with no advisories. Overall, then, there’s a couple of areas for potential improvement but nothing to get in the way of enjoying the car straight away.IMG_7156.JPG2.73 MB
The Mechanics
Full history since 2004
Pristine engine bay
Drives very well
Further evidence, if it were needed, of the care with which this car has been treated comes under the bonnet where the engine bay is very clean and tidy. The car starts on the button and drives exactly as it should, which is to say that it is a very refined and comfortable cruiser. There are no untoward noises on the move and the automatic gearbox changes smoothly up and down the gears. There are no leaks evident and no smoke from the exhaust. In short, it’s ready to go.
A well-preserved and unmolested roadster and GT car that should have plenty of life left in yet.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the sellers discretion.
Please see our FAQ's here and our Terms & Conditions here
