Mercedes-Benz SL500

The R129 series replaced the long-running R107 series in 1989 and was to continue in production until 2001. Oh how the rest of the industry envied Mercedes-Benz’ ability to keep a model in production for decades!

The brilliance of the electric hood, the snug fitting hard top which effectively turned it into a proper coupe and its rock solid build quality were all part of the package that caught the attention of Lady Diana, Princess of Wales. She traded her Jaguar XJS for a 500SL in 1991, much to the consternation of the press. It was the first time a member of the Royal Family had bought a foreign car and it didn’t go down very well with the tabloids, so much so that she handed it back to Mercedes-Benz who had the forethought to keep it, the car now being displayed in their museum in Stuttgart.

A smooth 5-speed automatic came along in 1996 and in early 1999 the final incarnation was launched with some subtle updates and the more frugal 302bhp 113 series engine. Softer Nappa leather, body coloured door handles, one touch starting and silver rings around the dials freshened the look and feel of this heavyweight bruiser.

This smart 1999 example was purchased by the vendor from a garage owner who had bought if for his wife in 2004 when it was just five years old. He told the vendor that it had 58,000 miles on the clock when he bought it but that early on in his ownership it had needed a new speedometer. An MOT from 2006 shows an indicated 12,090, so the total, which now shows 31,800 is known to be incorrect. The vendor believes therefore that it has covered a total of around 90,000 miles, although there is no paperwork to substantiate this.

Since purchase he has used it sparingly, ensuring that it has been kept in tip top condition. A decent file of bills accompanies the car and he confirms that it is all in good working order and has both sets of keys. Last serviced in April last year, it has covered just over 1,000 miles since, 5 old MOTs confirming that just 20,000 miles have been added since 2006. Complete with hard top, the electric soft top works perfectly and as an added bonus the vendor has had the wheels refurbished. Due to carry a 12 month MOT by the time of the sale, this well cared for example looks very good value at the suggested guide price.