Lot 239 - 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 500 Roadster
| Lot Number | 239 |
| Registration | R510 NTT |
| Chassis Number | WDB1290672F01698774 |
| Engine Number | 119982-220929776 |
| Odometer reading | 63,850 miles |
| Result | Sold - £10,640 |
Following the resounding success of the R107, the R129 Mercedes-Benz SL had a rather tough act to follow, and it still had to carry on the tradition of a fast and reliable grand touring convertible. The advantage designers had with the R129 was technology. By the time the final car rolled off the production line in 1989, these earlier models had been in production for 18 years with very little change. Therefore the new SL 500 featured many new and innovative ideas, such as controlled electronic damping, automatically expanding roll-over bar and a more modern multi-link rear axle. In addition to this was a fully operating electric hood, windows, door mirrors and seats, which made this model easy and comfortable to operate. The SL boasted a more powerful engine and the stopping power was aided by anti-locking braking for added reassurance.
Gone were the days of 'Dallas' and 'Bond girls' and a new technology was ushered in, the advanced SL had the ability to cruise in comfort at 150 mph with over 300 bhp. Diana, Princess of Wales sold her Jaguar XJS and leased a metallic red SL 500, she was the first member of the Royal family to use a foreign car.
This 5.0 litre, V8 with five speed automatic transmission is offered in metallic Azurite Blue with mushroom leather interior and a dark blue soft top, this is certainly an attractive colour combination for the SL Mercedes-Benz. This two owner example has relatively low mileage and was specified from new with a wealth of desirable options, which include a glass panoramic hard top roof and electric adjustable heated front seats with a memory programme. These two desirable additions were coupled with electric mirrors, automatically dipping rear view mirror, CD player with a cassette compartment and headlamp wash/wipe. The history file accompanying this SL 500 shows a good degree of responsible ownership, which with so few owners is to be expected. It has no less than six Mercedes-Benz main dealer stamps in the service book, although the last service was performed by the vendors local garage in 2016 at 60,000 miles.
Not only does this wonderful five litre, V8 provide sublime relaxed power, but coupled with the automatic gearbox and heated seats generates the kind of luxury motoring you would want from any modern classic.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.