Mercedes-Benz 300SL

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Produced between 1989 and 2002, the R129-series took the Mercedes SL range into a new dimension, the heavyweight grand tourer gaining a whole host of sophisticated goodies designed to make the lives of their wealthy owners just that little bit easier.

The double-wishbone front suspension and five-link rear setup gave the SL sportscar levels of handling, the stiff bodyshell being remarkably free from scuttle-shake. Pop-up roll over bars, a full complement of airbags, adaptive damping and stability control left nothing to chance, while an electrically powered soft-top made fine weather driving a pleasure.

Initially launched with the 190bhp six-cylinder engine as fitted to this 300SL, a five-litre version with 322bhp was also on offer in the much more expensive 500SL. For the 1994 model year, along with a fresh range of engines, the SL denomination was moved to the front of the badge on the back, the new entry level model becoming the SL280.

This smart 84,000 mile example dates from 1990 and has various desirable extras including air conditioning, heated electric seats and a Bluetooth radio connection. Complete with its hard top for year-round motoring, it is MOTd until April 2015 and taxed until January.

Its owner of 13 years had advised us that the electric hood is in working order, the pop-up cover at the back requiring a little manual assistance when folding it down. Offered with a pair of handy suitcases in the boot, it is ready to go touring with a new owner in the coming summer months.