1996 MERCEDES-BENZ (R129) SL500 - 25,368 MILES

This Mercedes-Benz SL500 is a refined and powerful modern classic cruiser, presented in superb condition for its age and with very low mileage. Under the bonnet is the desirable late-model 322bhp 5.0-litre ‘M119’ V8 engine, which drives the rear wheels via a five-speed automatic transmission. The odometer shows just 25,368 miles from new.

This original R129-generation SL500 was supplied new by Jacksons of Jersey on 25 January 1996. The first owner kept the car for 15 years, and then after being re-registered in the UK, it remained with a private collector for the following year. It is now with its second UK keeper and third owner from new, who acquired the car just over four years ago. During their custodianship, they have driven the car sparingly, and have kept it in a heated and humidity-controlled garage.

Thanks to its rather pampered existence and low-mileage early island life on Jersey, this SL’s bodywork is in great shape, with no evidence of any prior accident damage. Its Brilliant Silver paintwork is believed to be entirely original and remains in excellent condition, with only a few very minor age-related blemishes, including a small chip on the driver’s side of the rear bumper. The dark blue convertible hood provides an attractive contrast with the paintwork while mirroring the interior colour, and is in good order. Its stitching has come away from one side of the plastic rear window, though this would be a straightforward repair. The car rides on its original set of 16-inch ‘Monkar’ Ronal alloy wheels, which are undamaged.

Stepping inside, the cabin is upholstered in attractive dark blue leather with matching carpets and glossy wood veneers, and presents very well overall. Both of the heated and electrically adjustable front seats are very smart, though there are minor creases and scuffs on their surfaces, commensurate with the car’s age. Elsewhere, the wood trim on the centre console is free of any chips, cracks or fading, and the original Mercedes-Benz ‘Exquisit’ radio/cassette player is still fitted. All of the car’s buttons, switches and electrical items work without fault, and there are no warning lights displayed on the dashboard.

This stylish convertible’s most recent routine maintenance was a general oil and filter change, which was carried out in June 2020 at 25,334 miles by the Mobile Mercedes-Benz Specialist. Prior to this, oil services were carried out in January 2018 at 25,284 miles and in December 2015 at 24,350 miles.

Its last MOT test was conducted on 29 March 2021 at 25,359 miles, which resulted in a clean, first-time pass. All four wheels are fitted with Pirelli Cinturato P7 tyres in size 225/55 R16, which the seller describes as being in good condition, with around 7mm of tread remaining.

The car will be accompanied by its original keys, books, manuals and tools. The service book contains a total of 13 stamps, which are all backed by printed invoices.

This Mercedes-Benz SL500 is a wonderful example of the desirable modern classic roadster, which is equipped with the sought-after ‘M119’ V8 engine and a five-speed automatic transmission. Serviced regularly despite the very low mileage, this well-presented SL will make a sophisticated companion for its next owner, whether they choose to enjoy it sparingly on sunny weekends or put it to use on their next long-distance road trip.

Factory options:

• 200A – Leather
• 241 – Left seat electrically adjustable with memory
• 242 – Right seat electrically adjustable with memory
• 249 – Auto dipping rear view mirror
• 501 – Outside mirrors with memory
• 511 – MB Exquisit stereo
• 565 – Rear seats
• 600 – Headlamp wash/wipe
• 652 – 8-hole alloy wheels
• 744 – Fabric top in dark blue
• 819 – CD changer in boot
• 873 – Heated left and right front seats

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.