Last week I laid out why I think right now the R230 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is probably the best value in the Mercedes-Benz world. It has the perfect combination of very high production numbers and the perfect timing of too old to be modern but too young to be a classic. Today, we have the previous generation that had a similar production run, which means it can still be had for very little money given how many are out there floating around. Of course I’m talking about the trusty R129, and more specifically an early 500SL.
This example up for sale in New Jersey is finished in one of my favorite colors of Spruce Green and just has shy of 51,000 miles. The best part? The asking price is only $10,900. Of course there is a catch.
CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1993 Mercedes-Benz 500SL on eBay
Year: 1993
Model: 500SL
VIN: WDBFA67E4PF080081
Engine: 5.0 liter V8
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
Mileage: 50,793 mi
Location: Deal, New Jersey
Price: $10,900
Stock #:80081
Exterior Color:Spruce Green Metallic
Interior Color:Tan
Body Type:Convertible
Transmission:Automatic
Fuel Type:Gasoline
Engine:5.0L NA V8 double overhead cam (DOHC) 32V
Mileage:50,793
As great of a deal this seems to be, this one needs some help. Cosmetically, let’s just say there is a lot going on with it. Major scratches and scrapes, the bumpers are bruised up, it looks like someone took a knife to the (replacement) soft top multiple times as well as the wind deflector, there is another giant tear in the rear trim, some wood is really delaminating, and the carpets are stained. Other than that, looks like a fine car. In all seriousness, I’m curious at what kind of mechanical shape this one is in given all the bad cosmetics. Even at $11,000, I’d pay for a PPI on this one even if you are going to leave all the flaws as-is. If that is the case, then it is basically a guilt-free 500SL, but I’d probably look at other examples if you are looking for a car to really be proud of.
– Andrew
