Car Purchase Guide: Focusing on the Mercedes SL (R129) Model
Mercedes-Benz R129 SL: A Timeless Classic with Nuances to Consider
The Mercedes-Benz R129 SL, produced from 1989 to 2001, is an undisputed classic and a significant advancement over its predecessor, the R107. This iconic roadster comes with a variety of engines, including straight-sixes, V8, and even a V12, each offering unique characteristics.
Under the hood, the entry-level 300SL used a 3.0-liter, 12-valve straight-six producing 190bhp. The 300SL-24, with its 24-valve head, boosted power to 231bhp. In 1993, Mercedes updated the nomenclature to the SL prefix and resized the six-cylinder engines. The SL280 and SL320 were introduced, with outputs at 204bhp and 224bhp, respectively. New engines were also introduced in 1998, with outputs at 204bhp for the SL280, 224bhp for the SL320, and 306bhp for the SL500. The V12-powered 600SL/SL600 carries a significant premium, with top-condition cars exceeding £40,000.
The 500SL, with its 5.0-liter, 32-valve quad-cam V8, is widely seen as the sweet spot, delivering 322bhp. This model is prone to common faults such as failed MAF sensors and worn crank pulleys on V6 models. The main weakness of the five-speed 722.6 gearbox is a typical oil leak at the front of the box, where the ECU plug connects. Replacing the worn seals is straightforward and inexpensive, but replacing the ECU can be costly if it is damaged by any oil ingress.
The R129 SL is softly sprung yet tightly damped, with suspension that preserves consistent geometry across a wide range of movement. However, it's crucial to check for worn dampers and bushes, particularly at the front, where ball joints and top mounts also endure significant strain. The steering system, including the steering idler, damper, and drag link, can likewise wear and develop play.
Sills and strut towers are generally sound, but inspect the brake lines for rust, as replacing these involves the labor-intensive removal of the rear subframe. Rear springs commonly fail at the bottom. At the rear, trunnion bushes are another frequently replaced item, often revealed by wear on the inner edges of the rear tyres.
The optional panoramic roof appears more prone to damage, both from water ingress at the rear and from mishandling when removed. Headlamp lenses and their wipers, particularly the motors, are costly to replace. Brakes on SLs are prone to wear, so their condition deserves careful attention. Hardtop seals can trap moisture, so inspect the edges carefully and ensure the roof fits and removes smoothly.
Inspect the edges of the boot carefully for water, which can enter via the rear high-level brake light and linger. Some areas where rust can creep in on the R129 SL include both wheelarches, especially the rear ones, and the leading edge of the bonnet on higher-mileage examples.
Gearbox fluid should be changed at around 40,000 miles, regardless of what the handbook advises. Genuine replacements for wheels can be hard to find and expensive, so think carefully about kerbing damage. The development of the optical and technical innovations of the Mercedes-Benz R129 SL (1989–2001) involved Mercedes-Benz's in-house design and engineering teams, including the design leadership of Bruno Sacco, Chief Designer at the time, as well as various departments specialized in automotive technology within Mercedes-Benz.
Values for the R129 SL cover a broad spectrum, with projects and rough runners starting from around £2500, usable six-cylinder cars typically commanding £5000-£10,000, and the 500SL/SL500 sitting at the sweet spot between £10,000-£20,000. The V12 offered outstanding refinement, 394bhp, and near-limitless equipment levels, but was costlier and sold in smaller numbers.
The R129 underwent numerous updates throughout its life, including the adoption of an electronically controlled 5-speed automatic in 1994. In 1998, the R129 underwent a facelift, with changes including standard 17-inch alloys, redesigned bumpers and tail-lamps, and a Sport package.
Read also:
- Understanding Hemorrhagic Gastroenteritis: Key Facts
- Stopping Osteoporosis Treatment: Timeline Considerations
- Expanded Community Health Involvement by CK Birla Hospitals, Jaipur, Maintained Through Consistent Outreach Programs Across Rajasthan
- Abdominal Fat Accumulation: Causes and Strategies for Reduction
%20Model){kind=link}