****** Interested parties should note, this vehicle was subject to a CAT N insurance loss in 06/2022 ******
Highlights
- Excellent revered 3.0 litre engine
- Electric convertible top
- Cream leather upholstery
The Appeal
Beautiful, powerful, advanced are just a few words that come to mind when describing the Mercedes SL. First launched at the 1989 Geneva motor show, The R129 was a huge leap from its predecessor, the then ageing R107, bringing the Mercedes right up to date, with more modern styling, technology and safety.
The R129 is undoubtedly a handsome car and the example we have here is no exception. An early 1992 model presented in beautiful red over cream this is a solid complete car, that with some light refurbishment will present as one of the finest examples of the highly revered model.
Well presented and mechanically solid, all of the important bits of the SL are in impeccable order and interested parties can rest assured that the hard work is already completed.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered 01.01.1992
- Unfortunately the car is lacking in service and maintenance history, however an inspection of the engine bay highlights that this has clearly been a well cared for car throughout its life
- Long MOT valid with no advisories until September 2023
- Correct V5 registration document present with the car
The Interior
- Well presented highly original interior space
- Extensively upholstered in cream leather
- Would ideally benefit from some light refurbishment to bring up to standard
- Leather is largely of a good standard but is showing signs of age and blemishing in areas
- Working electric front seats
- Drivers seat will likely need recovering as the upholstery is coming away from the seat base
- Rear leather seating in good order but also showing signs of age and wear
- Good quality wood trim found across the cabin
- Glove box lid will need attention as it won't fully close at present
- Upgraded alpine radio head unit
- Cream carpet which does exhibit with some staining
- Working electric windows
The Exterior
- Brilliant stand out red exterior paint work
- Exterior is in largely good order and has plenty of potential to become a true show winner
- Iconic, timeless Mercedes styling
- Excellent electrically operated convertible top which functions smoothly and quickly
- Convertible roof is in good order, with good fabric upholstery
- Some minor signs of damage and blemishing to be seen in some areas of the bodywork, most notably some scratching around the drivers side wheel arches and drivers mirror
- Four effortlessly stylish black Mercedes alloys, in good shape but showing some kerb damage in places
- Retractable safety roll bar for improved crash protection during open top driving
- Removable wind deflector which attaches to the aforementioned roll bar
The Mechanics
- Legendary 3.0 litre engine famed for its reliability
- Seen by Mercedes enthusiasts as the go to engine for an SL due to its longevity and economy over the v8 or v12 variants
- Mated to a silky smooth automatic transmission which still provides quick, crisp gear changes
- Provides an excellent driving experience, both dynamic and sporty yet refined, quiet and comfortable when needed
- Signed off with a long advisory free MOT valid into September 2023
Summary
If you’re after a well built, reliable, sporty and ultimately stylish roadster, its hard to beat a Mercedes SL. Whilst all the generations of the marque’s flagship roadster boast impressive reputations, these R129 era cars are often seen as the best of the bunch, courtesy of their classic styling with more modern amenities, safety features and improved running gear.
What we have here is a car with truly great potential. Mechanically sound with a good working electric convertible top, this has all the important boxes checked and now needs that final bit of tlc from a new loving owner to turn it into one of the finest examples of an R129 on the road today.
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.*
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