Andrew talked about the R129 quite recently with his SL600, but I’ve also had my eye on these.
My particulate favorites are the pre-facelift early R129s. Whether they’re 300SLs or 500SLs, I really like the two-tone chunky bodywork and the simplicity of the early design. Perhaps it’s because I remember walking around one in a showroom when it was new, but the early R129s have always held a special fascination for me. As a bonus, early cars tend to be more affordable if you can find a decent one. In fact, they’re some of the most affordable “classic” Mercedes-Benz products out there. So let’s take a look at this lovely ’91:
CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500SL on eBay
Year: 1991
Model: 500SL
VIN: WDBFA66EXMF028435
Engine: 5.0 liter V8
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
Mileage: 64,247 mi
Location: Bellingham, Massachusetts
Price: $12,500 Buy It Now
Presenting This Low Mileage 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500SL Featured with 64,247 Miles, Comes With A Clean Carfax.
Available In Blue with A Beige interior. Equipped with an Automatic transmission, Cruise Control, Air Conditioning, Power windows, Power Steering, Power Seats, Power Soft Top ( That Operates Like It Should ), 4-Wheel Disc Brakes, Dual Airbags, Factory Mercedes-Benz Radio And First Aid Kit.
A well Equipped Vehicle That Is Fully Serviced And Shows Lots And Recent Service Records By Carfax.
Don’t Miss The Chance Owning This Real Low Miles German Sports Convertible !
Please Call Or Email With Any Questions. Out Of State And International Buyers Are Welcome, Shipping Quotes Available Upon Request.
The upper bodywork is painted Ice Blue Metallic (348) and contrasted by the darker blue lower bodywork. This one has beige upholstery and should have a dark blue soft top, though we don’t see it. Like Andrew’s SL600, there’s no mention of the hardtop and it’s not shown in photos, so you might want to factor in that it’s not with the car. The 8-slot wheels appear to be from a later model, but look good. Mileage is lower, though as a now 31-year-old convertible it’s not surprising that the leather shows a fair amount of wear. Still, it’s a good looking car that the dealer is asking only $12,500 for. You can find them cheaper than this, but usually in worse condition or with more mileage. This one strikes a decent balance between condition and affordability to me.
-Carter
Avoid first generation R129s at all costs. They are fraught with issues from fuel systems to wiring harnesses to AC evaporator failures. If you do get one, be sure to have a mechanic that is very familiar with CIS fuel systems, as you’ll need them if anything goes south.
Facelift R129s are a far better choice, as they have a more robust and efficient transmission, no AC evaporator or wiring harness issues, better fuel and ignition systems, etc., etc.
Whew! Glad the DeAleR specified this apex car has power windows.