R129 SL – 1989-02

The two-seater SL convertible has always been a firm favourite in the UK and in 1989 Mercedes-Benz replaced it’s popular R107 series with the all-new R129. Entry level to the new SL range was the 300SL powered by the company’s 24-valve twin-cam 2960cc inline-six but the model that made the most waves was the highly refined 4973cc V8 equipped 500SL. Despite what engine was under the bonnet, handling and ride was exceptional on all R129 SL’s and the model was the first two-door soft-top car to feature an roll-over bar that automatically deployed to protect the occupants at the first sign of a potential roll-over.

Anti-lock brakes were standard across the range and in 1992 Mercedes-Benz raised the bar even further with the introduction of the barnstorming V12 powered SL600. In 1995 the very rare 7.3 litre SL 73 AMG broke cover and other very desirable R129 SL’s produced before the introduction of the R230 in 2002 were the even rarer AMG 70 SL and the slightly more numerous AMG 55 SL and AMG 60 SL.