1998 MERCEDES-BENZ (R129) SL320

KEY FACTS

• An elegant and tastefully specified example of the stylish modern classic, complete with the factory hardtop.
• Under the bonnet is a 3.2-litre straight-six, delivering 228bhp to the rear wheels through a five-speed automatic transmission.
• This low-mileage R129 is in a highly original condition, and sports the optional rear seats.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• Riding on 18-inch AMG ‘monobloc’ alloy wheels, the car is finished in rare Aquamarine Blue metallic with a matching removable hardtop over a beige leather cabin.
• Factory-fitted equipment includes electrically adjustable seats, windows and a dark blue convertible soft top; as well as climate control, cruise control, illuminated vanity mirrors, headlamp wipers, rear seats, and the original Mercedes-Benz CD player.
• The car is accompanied by numerous maintenance invoices and receipts, and its original boot-mounted warning triangle.

CONDITION

• There is no known bodywork damage.
• The paintwork is believed to be original and is in good condition, with some stone chips to the front end of the car and on the bonnet – a few of which have been touched in. There is also a minor paint blemish around the base of the radio aerial.
• The factory-fitted convertible roof presents very well, following replacement of the three plastic windows and edging trim.
• The beige leather interior is very smart overall, with no obvious flaws. There is some gentle ‘patina’ to the leather on the seats and steering wheel, and some minor imperfections to the driver’s door card around the door pull.
• There are no known mechanical or electrical faults.
• The most recent MOT test was in September 2021 at 75,533 miles, when the car passed on its first attempt with two advisories noted: the supplementary restraint system warning lamp does not illuminate, and there is slight play in the nearside track rod end ball joint.
• Two previous tests in April 2021 had noted corrosion to various suspension and braking components, as well as general surface rust to the underside, though the test history suggests this was rectified.

SERVICE HISTORY

• The car was most recently serviced in September 2021, when it received a Mercedes-Benz A-service, which comprised of the engine oil and filter replacement, air filter replacement, and general inspection.
• In February 2021 at 75,481 miles, the steering damper assembly was replaced by JR Autocare; while in July 2017 at around 69,000 miles, Mercedes-Benz of Norwich performed a standard service.
• The documented service prior to this was in April 2007 at 64,856 miles, when Galicia Motors replaced the front and rear brake pads as well as two tyres.
• The MOT history indicates that the car was kept off the road between 2009 and 2012, and between 2013 and 2017.

SUMMARY

This Mercedes-Benz SL320 is a sophisticated R129-generation convertible, with a desirable factory specification and relatively low mileage. Combining a smooth straight-six engine with legendary build quality and a cossetting ride, this stylish modern classic would be a delightful road trip companion or a refined daily driver.

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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.