2001 MERCEDES-BENZ (R129) SL320

This Mercedes-Benz SL320 is a superb example of the marque’s robust and stylish R129 generation SL roadster. Under the bonnet is a 3.2-litre V6 engine producing 221bhp, driving the rear wheels via a five-speed automatic gearbox. The odometer reads 79,640 miles.

First registered on 22 May 2001, there are seven previous keepers on the log book, though several of these are believed to have been in the same family. The most recent private owner was a collector who owned the car for nearly 10 years, covering approximately 20,000 miles in the UK and on continental road trips during this time. It is now offered for sale by the trade.

Finished in Amber Red metallic, this Mercedes stands out when compared to the more common silvers, blacks and blues found on these cars, and its bodywork and paint are described as being in excellent condition. There are a few small stone chips, which the vendor advises have been touched in professionally, but this is a very smart SL. It comes with a silver hardtop that fits well, while the electrically operated soft top is also in very good order.

The three Perspex rear windows in the convertible hood have been replaced, so are now clear and bright, free of clouding or other damage. It rides on the original five-spoke alloy wheels, which are in excellent order with no kerbing damage or corrosion visible thanks to recent refurbishment.

Its well-appointed interior remains in excellent order. The light grey full leather shows only modest wear and slight discolouration, mainly on the driver’s seat bolster, with the front seats benefiting from driver and passenger memory functions as well as heating. This example also features desirable amenities such as electric heated folding mirrors, cruise control, radio cassette and CD changer, and climate control. Contact points including the wood-rimmed steering wheel and gear knob are also in great shape.

The most recent service was carried out at 79,616 miles by Paul Goy Racing of Lincoln in August 2020. While in the previous collector’s care, it is understood that work on the car was sometimes undertaken by his local mechanic, and perhaps not always documented. Nevertheless, the vendor reports that it runs and drives exactly how you would want – feeling very solid and with no rattles or squeaks. Over the first 10 years of its life, the SL was cared for exclusively by main dealer Stirling of Worcester.

The most recent MOT test was on 10 August 2020 at 79,616 miles. This was a first-time pass, with no mechanical advisories whatsoever – the tester noting only that the registration plates were slightly insecure.

The wheels are shod in Avon ZV5 tyres all round in the correct fitment of 245/45/R17, which are in good condition. A full-size spare wheel also features in the boot, alongside the original tool kit, and the Mercedes hardtop stand is also included. The car is accompanied by the original owner’s handbook, stamped service book, and two sets of keys.

Finished in a rare colour scheme, and evidently in excellent order throughout, this R129 is a desirable modern classic that blends sophisticated open-top motoring with proven reliability. This is a very impressive car that would make a wonderful addition to any Mercedes-Benz collection, but would also be a great entry point to SL ownership, being a great companion for sunny summer cruises or road trips.

Summary of service history

• 31.10.02 - 10160 miles - Stirling of Worcester
• 02.02.04 - 23275 miles - Stirling of Worcester
• 05.07.05 - 35566 miles - Stirling of Worcester
• 28.02.07 - 47207 miles - Stirling of Worcester
• 30.10.09 - 53150 miles - Stirling of Worcester
• 31.05.12 - 58990 miles - Paul Goy Racing Ltd Lincoln
• 17.05.16 - 71025 miles - Paul Goy Racing Ltd Lincoln
• 10.08.20 - 79616 miles - Paul Goy Racing Ltd Lincoln

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 through HPI checks and MOT history where available. 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.

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