Lot details Registration No: M59 SMJ Chassis No: WDB1290672F110184 Mot Expiry: Nov 2009
Unveiled at the March 1989 Geneva Motor Show, the new Mercedes-Benz R129-series SL range was beautifully engineered. Based around a two-door monocoque bodyshell, its sophisticated all-round independent suspension (double-wishbone front / five-link rear) was augmented by a host of active and passive safety features including: electronic stability control, ventilated ABS disc brakes, adaptive-damping shock absorbers, front airbags and an integral rollover bar that deployed in less than a third of a second (if the car ever sensed an impending flip). Suitably cosseting, the convertible's impeccably built cabin was protected by a fully automated power hood and featured such niceties as memory seats, electric windows / mirrors and an adjustable steering column. Yet lurking beneath all the luxury and refinement was a performance orientated sports car. Launch flagship, the mighty 500 SL (known as the SL 500 from 1994 onwards) was powered by the first of Mercedes' four-valve per cylinder, dual-overhead camshaft V8 powerplants. Credited with 326bhp and 332lbft of torque, this fearsome 4973cc (M119.982) unit was allied to four-speed (later five-speed) automatic transmission as standard. Reputedly capable of over 150mph and 0-60mph in 6.3 seconds, the model was updated with a more emissions friendly but marginally less powerful 4966cc (M113.963) engine from June 1998 onwards.
Finished in metallic silver with grey leather upholstery, this particular example is variously described by the vendor as being in "good" (engine, automatic transmission, electrical equipment) or "excellent" (interior trim, bodywork, paintwork) condition. Reportedly "a two owner car with good service history", 'M59 SMJ' is further understood to have "just had a major 'B' service at Mercedes-Benz of Watford". Riding on alloy wheels, this striking SL 500 is offered for sale with current MOT and road tax.
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