Mercedes Benz SL-Class (500SL | 600SL)

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Written by Matt Krepinski

The SL Class is Mercedes ultimate luxury roadster. The legend began in 1954 with the 300SL Gulwing and Benz has continued to amaze us ever since.

The R107 (1972-1988) and R129 (1989-2001) are now affordable and a thrill to drive. Manual transmission equipt 500SL's are very difficult to find and many enthusiasts argue that a manual sours the luxury cruising experience. Consider the SL a gentleman’s muscle car, having displacement and power similar to a muscle car but with much nicer interior, higher build quality and much higher resale value.

The fourth generation SL (R129, 89-01) initially offered two engine packages:

• The 300SL featured a 228 horsepower 3.0L I6
• The highly acclaimed 500SL features a 322hp 5.0L V8.

The SL had many features that work together to offer an excellent driving experience. One of the options was electronically controlled damping. There was some really neat standard equipment such as triangular lower control arms with antidive geometry and a stabilizer bar. This car utilizes a multi-link axle to offer you the smoothest ride possible. These features helped this car stay in control at higher speeds. Everything in this car is electric from the windows, mirrors, the locks and the trunk release. The seats are heated and the quality of the leather on the seats is exceptional.

For safety equipment these cars came with standard ABS, and air bags which was a rarity with most cars of this time. The SL has a hidden automatically expanding roll-over bar; this is not a 100% guarantee of your safety if you roll your car, but proof of concept that Mercedes can make a vehicle safer without effecting its aesthetic beauty.

I personally recommend the 5.0L V8, if you apply the gas to liberally you will definitely be pushed back into your seat. In 1992, the 600SL with a 6.0 V12 became available, this is intended for the enthusiast that wants an extra amount of power. I find the V8 is the most reliable and the most well balanced engine.

In 1995, the 500SL AMG variation was released. The AMG 500SL featured a 375 hp hand-built AMG motor with six litres of displacement. AMG also added various aerodynamic features, deepdish AMG rims, an exhaust package and other flairs that makes this car look and drive astounding. The AMG 500SL is extremely elusive because it is very common for individuals to put on the AMG bodykit, some rims and AMG exhaust in an attempt to pass their car as the genuine article.

 

Available Mercedes Benz 500SL Listings

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JDM Mercedes Benz 500SL Pricing

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JDM Mercedes Benz 500SL:

Chassis Code: R129

Engine: 322hp 5.0L V8 DOHC 4 Valves per Cyl

Model Specifics:

• 4 Speed Automatic Tramission
• Rollover bar flips up for safety when required
• Acceleration Slip Regulation (ASR) Traction Control Optional
• ABS

Pricing Coming Soon. Approx $12k to $20k

Auction Sheet Grading Explained

 

JDM Mercedes Benz 600SL

Engine: 389hp 6.0L V12

Model Differences:

• Started production in 1993
• Watchout for 500SL's with fake 600SL badging

Pricing Coming Soon.

Auction Sheet Grading Explained

Mercedes Benz 500SL Compliance

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Compliance has recently become an issue with all imported vehicles in BC.

Typical Compliance parts required for the Mercedes Benz 500SL:

• DOT/SAE Compliant Headlights
• Daytime Running Light Module (In stock)
• Dual Filament Bulbs
• Front Signal/Markers
• Wire & Wire Connectors
• Sockets
• Third Brake Light (Possible)

Typical Compliance service required for the Mercedes Benz 500SL:

• Replace / Aim Headlights
• Modify and Wire Rear Markers
• Modify and Wire Front Markers
• Modify Front Lense for DRL/Markers
• Install DRL Module
• Install Third Brake Light (Possible)

These parts are required to meet the regulations set forth by the CVSE. (Commercial Vehicle Safety and Enforcement)

Mercedes Benz 500SL Articles

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Mercedes Benz 500SL Resources

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• Wikipedia - Mercedes Benz SL-Class History
• How stuff works - SL Class History
• BenzWorld - 500SL (R129) Message Forum
• Mercedes Shop - SL Message Forum
• Mercedes Benz Owners Club UK

Mercedes Benz 500SL Videos

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500SL Acceleration


Brabus tuned 500SL Reving

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