1999 MERCEDES-BENZ (R129) SL280 - 29,473 MILES

Presented here is a superb example of the Mercedes-Benz SL280. Fitted with the later 2.8-litre ‘M112’ V6 engine producing 201bhp and mated to the five-speed automatic transmission, this is one of the final facelift R129-model SLs, which are becoming increasingly sought after, as stylish and sophisticated modern classic cruisers. The odometer shows 29,473 miles.

Finished in the popular colour of Brilliant Silver, and retaining the factory-supplied, colour-coded hard-top, this car was first registered in March 1999 and has two previous keepers. The third and current owner acquired the car nearly nine years ago. The car presents extremely well and in highly original condition, although there may be the inevitable light stone chip to the front that has occurred during its low-mileage road use.

Under its beautifully-engineered bonnet, the car is in the condition one would expect, retaining the factory decals and identifying plaques. Shut lines remain tight, with very little degradation evident on any of the visible mechanicals. The car rides on 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels, which are in excellent condition.

Like the exterior, the interior is very much original, and in superb order with the black leather upholstery bearing minimal signs of use, and no heavy wear or discolouration - emphasising the superb build quality that Mercedes-Benz was renowned for in period. The standard fit Audio 10 sound system is still present, and the car will be supplied with the hard-top lifting and storage frame for when it is not fitted on the car. Given such originality, it should perhaps come as no surprise that the car is a previous Mercedes-Benz Club Concours class-winning SL.

Stuttgart Garage has maintained the vehicle on an annual basis for the current owner since 2013, with services at 23,478 miles in August 2013, 25,000 miles in August 2014, 26,339 miles in August 2015, 27,624 miles in August 2016, 28,163 miles in August 2017, 28,885 miles in August 2018, 29306 miles in September 2019 and lastly 29,442 miles in September 2020 - all of which also evidence the low mileage covered during their custodianship.

The most recent MOT test was on 3 September 2020 at 29,442 miles, when it achieved a first-time pass with no advisories or defects noted. All four road wheels are fitted with Dunlop SP Sport tyres, which would benefit from replacement in the near future as they have around 3mm of tread depth remaining. A full-size spare wheel is present, shod in a Michelin tyre.

The service file is present in the original book pack, and shows a comprehensive maintenance record between main dealers and independent specialists. A thick file of invoices is also included, as are previous MOT certificates.

In the boot of the car, the factory-supplied wind deflector is present in its rightful stowed position, as is the original first aid kit and tool roll. Also present is the space-saver spare wheel, as well as the full-size spare mentioned above.

This Mercedes-Benz SL280 is a beautifully maintained, original and unmodified example of a car that has seen a well-deserved rise in desirability in recent years. Following in the footsteps of its R107 forbear, this model of SL is one of the last truly ‘over-engineered’ cars that Mercedes-Benz produced, and will no doubt prove to be a reliable and rewarding modern classic ownership experience for its next keeper.

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. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.