14th Jun, 2023 13:00
Imperial War Museum | Duxford, Cambridgeshire
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Finished in the rare and striking combination of Green Black Metallic with Mushroom leather upholstery
Original book pack, factory hardtop, two keys
Extensive service history documented in two books and via numerous invoices
Faster, harder-edged and more driver-orientated than its R107 predecessor, the Mercedes-Benz R129-series SL was launched at the 1989 Geneva Motor Show. Brim-full of cutting-edge technology, its impressively rigid two-door monocoque shell featured an integral rollover bar that deployed in less than a third of a second (if the car ever sensed an impending flip) and a fully automatic convertible roof. Known for its sure-footed handling, the R129 utilised all-round independent suspension, ABS brakes and power-assisted steering. Propelled by a variety of six- and eight-cylinder engines all allied to automatic transmission, it was the sportscar of choice for many contemporary F1 drivers. The range's initial flagship, the 500 SL model marked the debut of Mercedes' four-valve-per-cylinder, dual-overhead camshaft V8 powerplants with variable valve timing. Thus, its 4973cc V8 was credited with 326bhp and 332lbft of torque. Reputedly capable of over 150mph and 0-60mph in 6.3 seconds, it was nevertheless a paragon of refinement.
Delivered to Mercedes-Benz Greenoaks Ltd of Reading on 22nd October 1997 as a 1998 model-year car, chassis 160990 was retained by them until 4th November 1998 when its original registration number ‘R655 VTF’ was exchanged for ‘HK 11’. Finished in the unusual and striking combination of Green Black Metallic with Mushroom leather upholstery and a Black soft-top, the SL500 also featured electric / memory front seats, occasional rear seats and headlamp washers / wipers. The original and continuation maintenance booklets record services at 10,471, 21,093, 31,625, 45,364, 58,316, 67,479, 73,007, 73,318, 74,165, 83,111, 89,362, 93,992, 95,240, 96,030 and 96,580 miles. Acquired by its last registered keeper in winter 2021, he had ‘R655 VTF’ treated to some £940 worth of paintwork, interior, soft-top and alloy wheel detailing. Now showing some 102,000 miles to its odometer, the Mercedes-Benz remains commensurately smart and is offered for sale with V5C Registration Document, book pack, fresh MOT certificate and numerous service invoices.
