Based on a shortened floorplan of the W124, the R129 Mercedes-Benz is easily one of the most desirable retro convertibles available. The R129 generation of SL vehicles followed Mercedes’s previous work, providing an excellent mixture of luxury comforts, sporty performance, and impressive technology for the time. 

The SL 500 is one of the more sought-after models from the lineup, boasting a whopping 5L V8, and all of the comforts you would come to expect from the legendary manufacturer. This particular example does Mercedes proud, presenting itself in excellent condition both inside out, and in full working order. 

This gorgeous SL has 8 former keepers, yet it is believed that the car was transferred between family members on multiple occasions. Rather remarkably, the vehicle also shows an incredibly low mileage figure of 34,000 miles, which is believed to be genuine as the MOT history would suggest. Whilst on the topic, this Mercedes has a valid MOT certificate until June 2023 and shows very little in the way of concerning advisories over the years. 

It is only due to sheer lack of use that the current owner has decided to let this SL 500 find a new home, where it will no doubt fill the new owner with pride. 

Believed to be original, the interior of this SL 500 has been beautifully preserved and shows off a fantastic finish for its age. In keeping with the mileage covered, items like the carpet, door cards, steering wheel and control seemingly show absolute minimal wear. The seats follow closely behind, with only minor signs of usage noticeable upon the driver’s seat. 

In keeping with true Mercedes-Benz tradition, the interior is also packed with a host of luxury comforts and clever features. Perhaps most notable, are electronic seat controls, and the electro-hydraulic roof. All features and controls are believed to be in full working order, exactly as Mercedes intended. 

Finished in a rather rare colour for the R129, this SL 500 looks absolutely fantastic for its age and definitely stands out from the crowd. As the vehicle has covered very few miles throughout its life, the paintwork has been wonderfully preserved and shows very few signs of age. The only known defect worth noting is a small scratch on the removable hardtop. In fact, with a thorough machine polish, this example would seemingly only bear a few incredibly minor marks.

All 4 wheels follow suit, appearing to show only a few incredibly minor marks. Given the mileage shown today, it is quite likely that these wheels retain an original finish, although difficult to verify. Wrapped in a matching set of Goodyear tyres, there is plenty of tread left for the lucky new owner to enjoy out on the sunny roads. 

Upon opening the bonnet, you’re greeted to both a very clean engine bay, and an enormous 5L V8 hiding within. Being one of the larger engines fitted to this generation of SL vehicles, you’ll certainly find no shortage of power. Instead, you’re met with bucket loads of torque, a smooth 4-speed automatic box and very impressive acceleration. Oh, and to top it off? That ever-so desirable V8 roar. 

This is one of those vehicles that will remain very capable of embarrassing modern sports cars for quite some time, and will no doubt deliver endless fun out on the roads. 

This low mileage SL 500 presents buyers with a superb opportunity to own a well-cared-for example of one of the more desirable R129 convertibles. This Mercedes is in excellent original condition both inside and out, is packed with luxury tech ahead of its time, and showcases great mechanical health. 

With the sunny weather here to stay, what more could you ask for than top-down, V8 motoring?

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