2001 MERCEDES-BENZ (R129) SL 500 'SILVER ARROW'

KEY FACTS

• A rare limited-edition roadster in very good condition.
• It is powered by a 305hp 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8, coupled to a five-speed automatic transmission.
• Delivered new to Florida, US, it later spent a decade in Alabama, before being exported to Europe in 2019.
• The car is currently French-registered with all import duties and taxes paid.

EQUIPMENT AND OPTIONS

• Built to celebrate the successful ‘Silver Arrows’ racing cars of the 1930s, this special edition of the R129-generation SL was finished in unique Silver Arrow Ultra Metallic paintwork, with a two-tone silver and black leather interior.
• Other ‘Silver Arrow’ edition features included illuminated sill plates, unique leather-bound floor mats, specific front wing badges, and BBS split-rim alloy wheels with polished rims.
• The car remains entirely standard, though it has been enhanced by the addition of a panoramic glass hard top, which the vendor acquired in 2019.
• It is accompanied by a factory certificate of authenticity, as well as all tools, books, and the wind deflector.

CONDITION

• No significant body damage, though there is a very small ‘crease’ below the left-side tail light.
• Its paintwork is in good condition for its age, with a few small blemishes around the front, and minor chips and marks elsewhere, as shown in the photo gallery.
• The front left and rear right wheels have some minor damage around the rims, so would benefit from refurbishment.
• The unique silver and black leather upholstery presents very well, with some slight wear and scuffs to the driver’s side outer bolster, and some discolouration around the steering wheel. Its wood inlays and ‘turned metal’ finishes are in great shape.
• There are no known mechanical or electrical faults.

SERVICE HISTORY

• The most recent service was in April 2021 at 81,475 miles, with an engine oil and filter change, and brake fluid change, carried out by Etoile Tuning 78.
• Prior to this, it received Mercedes-Benz main dealer services in 2019, 2018 and 2012.

SUMMARY

This Mercedes-Benz SL500 ‘Silver Arrow’ edition is one of only 1,550 built for the US market, now residing in France, which remains in very good condition. It represents an exceptionally rare find in mainland Europe, as this special R129 was only offered new in the US and UK - so this is a great chance to acquire a genuine left-hand drive example of this collectible modern classic.

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