Lot 189 - 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL500

The Mercedes-Benz R129 models were produced from 1989 through to 2001 and were sold under the SL Class model names. The R129 replaced the R107 SL Class in 1989 and was subsequently replaced by the R230 in 2001. The R129 was based on the shortened floorpan of the Mercedes-Benz W124 saloon and featured many innovative details for the time. The R129 came to public attention in 1991 when Diana, Princess of Wales, sold her Jaguar XJS to lease a J-registration, metallic red 500 SL, becoming the first member of the royal family to use a foreign car. This controversy sparked a media storm as it was questioned whether a member of British royalty should drive foreign cars. The fifth generation of the legendary SL series of two-door convertible sports cars made by Mercedes-Benz was known as the R230. It featured a fully retractable hardtop that was marketed as the Vario Roof; a first for the SL Class although it had been available on the smaller SLK model since 1997.

Originally registered on 8^th June 2004, this Mercedes-Benz has formed part of a private collection in recent times and as such, has been kept in a warm dry environment. We are advised by the vendor this car drives with no known faults and with the modest mileage of 67,322 the 4966cc engine is barely run in. Finished in silver with a black leather interior, this SL500 is supplied with a V5C registration document and a current MoT test certificate valid until 16^th February 2024. These are fabulous looking vehicles that offer ‘wind in the hair’ motoring as well as the comfort of a hardtop, such is the magnificent operation of the hood mechanism.