Mercedes-Benz - SL500 - NO RESERVE - 1999
08
days
11
hours
20
minutes
09
seconds
Current bid
€ 8,100
No reserve price
Expert
Selected by Arjan Rietveld
Thirty years' experience with classic cars, specialising in Italian cars and Porsche.
Estimate € 17,000 - € 19,000
 | €8,100 | |
|---|---|---|
| €7,600 | |
 | €7,100 | |
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Mercedes-Benz SL500 Cabriolet (R129), 1999.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
Mercedes-Benz SL 500 (R129) 5.0 V8 – 1999 – Smoke Silver Metallic – Saffron Nappa Leather – Well equipped
The Mercedes-Benz SL 500 from the R129 generation belongs to the most beloved luxury roadsters Mercedes-Benz has ever produced. The R129 was introduced in 1989 as the successor to the legendary R107 and remained in production until 2001. The model combined Bruno Sacco’s timeless design with innovative safety technology, impressive build quality, and the comfort that at the time was available only in the top segment.
The Mercedes-Benz SL 500 offered here from 1999 belongs to this later generation and is equipped with the powerful 5.0-liter V8 engine with 302 hp, paired with an electronically controlled five-speed automatic. This combination is known for its smooth power delivery, impressive flexibility, and comfortable driving characteristics. With its atmospheric V8, rear-wheel drive, and classic roadster configuration, this SL provides a driving experience that is characteristic of the large Mercedes-Benz cabriolets from the 1990s.
What makes this example particularly attractive is the exceptionally elegant color scheme and the extensive factory equipment. The bodywork is finished in the original Mercedes-Benz color Smoke Silver Metallic (color code 702), combined with a luxurious Saffron Nappa leather interior (interior code 234A). This warm color combination suits the classic character of the R129 and emphasizes the exclusive appearance of this Mercedes-Benz.
The car is also richly equipped with, among others, Xenon lighting, heated electrically adjustable front seats with memory, exclusive Nappa leather upholstery, a Bose audio system, automatic climate control, extensive burl wood interior trim, and the SL2 Value Added Package.
According to available American option data, the SL2 Value Added Package at the time represented a surcharge of $1,795. The metallic paint and the Saffron Nappa leather were included at no additional cost. In addition, the original Mercedes-Benz data card confirms various luxury factory features, including Xenon headlights (code 612), seat heating (code 873), the audio system (code 810), and electrically adjustable seats with memory (codes 241 and 242).
The American list price for an SL 500 from model year 1999 was around $82,000 to $85,000, depending on configuration and included equipment. With the SL2 package of $1,795, this example represented a new-price around $84,000 to $87,000. In the Netherlands, a similarly richly equipped SL 500 was in the exclusive top segment at the time, with a new price around 250,000 to 300,000 Dutch guilders (approximately €113,000 to €136,000).
The combination of the powerful V8, stylish design, extensive luxury equipment, and attractive color scheme makes this SL 500 an interesting modern classic.
BODYWORK & PAINTWORK:
The body of this Mercedes-Benz SL 500 presents itself in a neat and well-maintained condition. The car is finished in the original Smoke Silver Metallic (702), a stylish metallic paint that suits the elegant lines of the R129 very well.
The paint has a nice gloss and the bodywork overall makes a well-kept impression. In the photographs the distinctive long hood, the broad shoulder line, and the classic proportions of this Mercedes-Benz are clearly visible.
The body panels align optically neatly and the car retains the original appearance of the R129 generation. The front and rear bumpers, doors, fenders, and trunk lid present themselves well. Locally there are light signs of use consistent with the age and mileage of the car, including small traces on the bumper parts.
The car sits on attractive light-alloy Mercedes-Benz wheels with a glossy, polished finish. These give the SL a luxurious appearance and suit the Smoke Silver Metallic body color perfectly.
The exterior mirrors are also in body color. The decorative moldings, door handles, lighting, and other exterior parts are present and appear well maintained. The original American headlamp units with orange side markers underline the American specification of this example.
A distinctive feature of the R129 is the ability to use the car both as an open convertible and a closed roadster. This model came from the factory with an electrically operated convertible roof and was originally delivered with a removable aluminum hardtop. The present hardtop is shown mounted in the photos and fits neatly to the body.
The convertible roof is finished in the factory color Java (code 745). The rear of the car is also well finished, with the original SL 500 badging and characteristic Mercedes-Benz rear lights.
The trunk area is lined with beige carpet and the inside of the trunk lid has the matching original lining.
The car presents itself as a neat, representative Mercedes-Benz SL 500 with a beautiful gloss and an attractive, classic appearance.
TECHNICAL:
Under the hood sits the atmospheric Mercedes-Benz 5.0-liter V8 engine with a displacement of 4,966 cc and a power output of 302 hp. This is the powerful V8 version of the R129, a motor known for its smoothness, comfortable character, and impressive performance.
This V8 is equipped with electronic ignition, electronic fuel injection, and a variable intake system. With two spark plugs per cylinder and an advanced engine management system, Mercedes-Benz offered at the time an excellent combination of performance, refinement, and reliability.
Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via an electronically controlled five-speed automatic. The transmission features adaptive shift control, overdrive, and a winter program, allowing the shift behavior to be adjusted to driving conditions.
The SL 500 also features independent suspension all around, with an advanced multi-link rear suspension and independent front suspension. This construction contributes to the comfortable driving characteristics and good road handling for which the R129 is known.
In safety terms, this Mercedes-Benz was ahead of its time. The car is equipped with the electronic stability program ESP (factory code 472), automatic traction control ASR, ABS, and Brake Assist. These systems help the driver keep the car under control in varying driving conditions.
The braking system consists of disc brakes all around, with ventilated fronts. Power steering provides light and comfortable operation, while the independent suspension and stabilizer bars contribute to balanced handling.
Another important safety feature is the automatically deploying roll bar behind the front seats. It can be activated automatically in the event of a rollover and, together with the reinforced body structure, forms an important part of the R129 safety concept.
The car has an odometer reading of 154,559 miles and is equipped with the American instruments with mile indicators (factory code 461).
The original Mercedes-Benz data card is present and confirms the factory configuration of the car.
INTERIOR:
The interior forms one of the most attractive features of this Mercedes-Benz SL 500. The combination of the exclusive Saffron Nappa leather, the extensive burl wood trim, and luxurious comfort features gives the car the appearance of a high-end Mercedes-Benz from the top segment of the nineties.
The original Saffron Nappa leather upholstery (code 234A) is in a warm beige shade and forms a particularly beautiful match with the Smoke Silver Metallic body. The leather is used on the electrically adjustable front seats, headrests, and various interior panels.
The seats appear well cared for and show normal signs of use consistent with the age of the car. The leather retains its characteristic texture and the seats offer the comfortable support one expects from an SL 500.
Both front seats are electrically adjustable and have memory for three seating positions. These features are confirmed by the original Mercedes-Benz factory codes 241 and 242. The extensive electric seat adjustment allows easy setup of a comfortable position.
In addition, this SL 500 is equipped with heated front seats (factory code 873), a particularly pleasant option when driving with the top down on cooler days.
The electrically adjustable steering column also has a memory function and can be adjusted in height and reach.
The dashboard features a mix of dark and beige materials and is accented by the original burl wood decorative panels. This wood trim runs across the center console, around the gear selector, and on the door panels.
The glossy wood finish provides a nice contrast with the light Nappa leather and gives the interior its classic, luxurious look.
The center console houses the original Mercedes-Benz Audio 30 radio for the American market (factory code 254), combined with the extensive audio system (factory code 810). The car has a Bose audio system with Acoustimass technology, six speakers, a cassette radio, and automatic speed-dependent volume control. Also included is a six-disc CD changer.
For climate comfort, the SL 500 features automatic climate control with cabin filter and the Mercedes-Benz REST function. With this function, the residual heat of the engine can be used to warm the interior for a while after the engine is turned off.
The car also features power windows, central locking, a remote locking system, and an alarm with engine immobilizer (factory code 551).
Also included are an auto-dimming rearview mirror (code 249), heated and electrically adjustable exterior mirrors, cruise control, and an integrated garage door opener (code 231).
The interior mirror can auto-dim when obstructive rearward glare is detected. The exterior mirrors are electrically adjustable, heated, and linked to the memory function.
The original door panels are finished in matching beige leather with burl wood trim and integrated controls for the electric seats. The floor is covered with beige velour carpet, while the center armrest offers extra storage space.
The electric convertible top control is located on the center console and is integrated into the original Mercedes-Benz control concept.
The car also features an automatic roll bar, a wind deflector behind the seats, heated rear window, illuminated vanity mirrors, entry lighting, and several lockable storage compartments.
Overall, the interior presents as well-kept and original. The combination of light Nappa leather, beautiful wood trim, and extensive electric comfort features underscores the exclusive character of this SL 500.
DOCUMENTS:
This Mercedes-Benz SL 500 is offered with an American title and Dutch import documentation. Import duties and VAT have already been paid.
Also included are the original American window sticker and the Mercedes-Benz data card. These documents provide insight into the car’s original factory specification, color, and available options.
The original Mercedes-Benz data card confirms, among other things, Smoke Silver Metallic paint (702U), the Saffron Nappa leather interior (234A), the Java convertible top (745), Xenon lighting (612), heated front seats (873), electrically adjustable front seats with memory (241 and 242), the ESP system (472), the extensive audio system (810), the integrated garage door opener (231), and the auto-dimming interior mirror (249).
It also confirms that the car was originally produced for the American market (code 494) and is a model year 1999 (code 809).
The factory equipment also includes, among other things, an automatically deploying roll bar, ABS, ASR, Brake Assist, front and side airbags, automatic climate control, electric convertible top, removable aluminum hardtop, electrically adjustable and heated exterior mirrors, electrically adjustable steering column with memory function, cruise control, central locking, alarm system, burl wood interior trim, and exclusive Nappa leather upholstery.
The original extra factory options include the SL2 Value Added Package with an American additional price of $1,795, Xenon HID headlights, seat heating, and a six-disc CD changer. The Smoke Silver Metallic paint and Saffron Nappa leather upholstery were included at no additional cost.
TECHNICAL INFORMATION:
Make: Mercedes-Benz
Model: R129 SL500 Cabriolet 5.0L V8
Year: 1999
Color: 702 Smoke Silver Metallic
Engine and power: 5.0L (4966 cc) V8, 302 hp (Matching numbers)
Fuel: Petrol
Transmission: Automatic
Mileage: 154,559 miles
Registration: American title and Dutch import documentation
Chassis/VIN: WDBFA68F8XF185147
EXTRA INFORMATION:
- This Mercedes-Benz is offered with an American title, which means the car is currently not tested and not road-ready.
- Photos are part of the description.
- On request a walk-around video can be provided with the engine running.
- Seller can assist with worldwide transport.
The car can be viewed and picked up in Schiedam, Netherlands. All technical inspections, test drives, and viewings are possible prior to placing a bid. For any questions you can contact the auctioneer.
Mercedes-Benz SL 500 (R129) 5.0 V8 – 1999 – Smoke Silver Metallic – Saffron Nappa Leather – Well equipped
The Mercedes-Benz SL 500 from the R129 generation belongs to the most beloved luxury roadsters Mercedes-Benz has ever produced. The R129 was introduced in 1989 as the successor to the legendary R107 and remained in production until 2001. The model combined Bruno Sacco’s timeless design with innovative safety technology, impressive build quality, and the comfort that at the time was available only in the top segment.
The Mercedes-Benz SL 500 offered here from 1999 belongs to this later generation and is equipped with the powerful 5.0-liter V8 engine with 302 hp, paired with an electronically controlled five-speed automatic. This combination is known for its smooth power delivery, impressive flexibility, and comfortable driving characteristics. With its atmospheric V8, rear-wheel drive, and classic roadster configuration, this SL provides a driving experience that is characteristic of the large Mercedes-Benz cabriolets from the 1990s.
What makes this example particularly attractive is the exceptionally elegant color scheme and the extensive factory equipment. The bodywork is finished in the original Mercedes-Benz color Smoke Silver Metallic (color code 702), combined with a luxurious Saffron Nappa leather interior (interior code 234A). This warm color combination suits the classic character of the R129 and emphasizes the exclusive appearance of this Mercedes-Benz.
The car is also richly equipped with, among others, Xenon lighting, heated electrically adjustable front seats with memory, exclusive Nappa leather upholstery, a Bose audio system, automatic climate control, extensive burl wood interior trim, and the SL2 Value Added Package.
According to available American option data, the SL2 Value Added Package at the time represented a surcharge of $1,795. The metallic paint and the Saffron Nappa leather were included at no additional cost. In addition, the original Mercedes-Benz data card confirms various luxury factory features, including Xenon headlights (code 612), seat heating (code 873), the audio system (code 810), and electrically adjustable seats with memory (codes 241 and 242).
The American list price for an SL 500 from model year 1999 was around $82,000 to $85,000, depending on configuration and included equipment. With the SL2 package of $1,795, this example represented a new-price around $84,000 to $87,000. In the Netherlands, a similarly richly equipped SL 500 was in the exclusive top segment at the time, with a new price around 250,000 to 300,000 Dutch guilders (approximately €113,000 to €136,000).
The combination of the powerful V8, stylish design, extensive luxury equipment, and attractive color scheme makes this SL 500 an interesting modern classic.
BODYWORK & PAINTWORK:
The body of this Mercedes-Benz SL 500 presents itself in a neat and well-maintained condition. The car is finished in the original Smoke Silver Metallic (702), a stylish metallic paint that suits the elegant lines of the R129 very well.
The paint has a nice gloss and the bodywork overall makes a well-kept impression. In the photographs the distinctive long hood, the broad shoulder line, and the classic proportions of this Mercedes-Benz are clearly visible.
The body panels align optically neatly and the car retains the original appearance of the R129 generation. The front and rear bumpers, doors, fenders, and trunk lid present themselves well. Locally there are light signs of use consistent with the age and mileage of the car, including small traces on the bumper parts.
The car sits on attractive light-alloy Mercedes-Benz wheels with a glossy, polished finish. These give the SL a luxurious appearance and suit the Smoke Silver Metallic body color perfectly.
The exterior mirrors are also in body color. The decorative moldings, door handles, lighting, and other exterior parts are present and appear well maintained. The original American headlamp units with orange side markers underline the American specification of this example.
A distinctive feature of the R129 is the ability to use the car both as an open convertible and a closed roadster. This model came from the factory with an electrically operated convertible roof and was originally delivered with a removable aluminum hardtop. The present hardtop is shown mounted in the photos and fits neatly to the body.
The convertible roof is finished in the factory color Java (code 745). The rear of the car is also well finished, with the original SL 500 badging and characteristic Mercedes-Benz rear lights.
The trunk area is lined with beige carpet and the inside of the trunk lid has the matching original lining.
The car presents itself as a neat, representative Mercedes-Benz SL 500 with a beautiful gloss and an attractive, classic appearance.
TECHNICAL:
Under the hood sits the atmospheric Mercedes-Benz 5.0-liter V8 engine with a displacement of 4,966 cc and a power output of 302 hp. This is the powerful V8 version of the R129, a motor known for its smoothness, comfortable character, and impressive performance.
This V8 is equipped with electronic ignition, electronic fuel injection, and a variable intake system. With two spark plugs per cylinder and an advanced engine management system, Mercedes-Benz offered at the time an excellent combination of performance, refinement, and reliability.
Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via an electronically controlled five-speed automatic. The transmission features adaptive shift control, overdrive, and a winter program, allowing the shift behavior to be adjusted to driving conditions.
The SL 500 also features independent suspension all around, with an advanced multi-link rear suspension and independent front suspension. This construction contributes to the comfortable driving characteristics and good road handling for which the R129 is known.
In safety terms, this Mercedes-Benz was ahead of its time. The car is equipped with the electronic stability program ESP (factory code 472), automatic traction control ASR, ABS, and Brake Assist. These systems help the driver keep the car under control in varying driving conditions.
The braking system consists of disc brakes all around, with ventilated fronts. Power steering provides light and comfortable operation, while the independent suspension and stabilizer bars contribute to balanced handling.
Another important safety feature is the automatically deploying roll bar behind the front seats. It can be activated automatically in the event of a rollover and, together with the reinforced body structure, forms an important part of the R129 safety concept.
The car has an odometer reading of 154,559 miles and is equipped with the American instruments with mile indicators (factory code 461).
The original Mercedes-Benz data card is present and confirms the factory configuration of the car.
INTERIOR:
The interior forms one of the most attractive features of this Mercedes-Benz SL 500. The combination of the exclusive Saffron Nappa leather, the extensive burl wood trim, and luxurious comfort features gives the car the appearance of a high-end Mercedes-Benz from the top segment of the nineties.
The original Saffron Nappa leather upholstery (code 234A) is in a warm beige shade and forms a particularly beautiful match with the Smoke Silver Metallic body. The leather is used on the electrically adjustable front seats, headrests, and various interior panels.
The seats appear well cared for and show normal signs of use consistent with the age of the car. The leather retains its characteristic texture and the seats offer the comfortable support one expects from an SL 500.
Both front seats are electrically adjustable and have memory for three seating positions. These features are confirmed by the original Mercedes-Benz factory codes 241 and 242. The extensive electric seat adjustment allows easy setup of a comfortable position.
In addition, this SL 500 is equipped with heated front seats (factory code 873), a particularly pleasant option when driving with the top down on cooler days.
The electrically adjustable steering column also has a memory function and can be adjusted in height and reach.
The dashboard features a mix of dark and beige materials and is accented by the original burl wood decorative panels. This wood trim runs across the center console, around the gear selector, and on the door panels.
The glossy wood finish provides a nice contrast with the light Nappa leather and gives the interior its classic, luxurious look.
The center console houses the original Mercedes-Benz Audio 30 radio for the American market (factory code 254), combined with the extensive audio system (factory code 810). The car has a Bose audio system with Acoustimass technology, six speakers, a cassette radio, and automatic speed-dependent volume control. Also included is a six-disc CD changer.
For climate comfort, the SL 500 features automatic climate control with cabin filter and the Mercedes-Benz REST function. With this function, the residual heat of the engine can be used to warm the interior for a while after the engine is turned off.
The car also features power windows, central locking, a remote locking system, and an alarm with engine immobilizer (factory code 551).
Also included are an auto-dimming rearview mirror (code 249), heated and electrically adjustable exterior mirrors, cruise control, and an integrated garage door opener (code 231).
The interior mirror can auto-dim when obstructive rearward glare is detected. The exterior mirrors are electrically adjustable, heated, and linked to the memory function.
The original door panels are finished in matching beige leather with burl wood trim and integrated controls for the electric seats. The floor is covered with beige velour carpet, while the center armrest offers extra storage space.
The electric convertible top control is located on the center console and is integrated into the original Mercedes-Benz control concept.
The car also features an automatic roll bar, a wind deflector behind the seats, heated rear window, illuminated vanity mirrors, entry lighting, and several lockable storage compartments.
Overall, the interior presents as well-kept and original. The combination of light Nappa leather, beautiful wood trim, and extensive electric comfort features underscores the exclusive character of this SL 500.
DOCUMENTS:
This Mercedes-Benz SL 500 is offered with an American title and Dutch import documentation. Import duties and VAT have already been paid.
Also included are the original American window sticker and the Mercedes-Benz data card. These documents provide insight into the car’s original factory specification, color, and available options.
The original Mercedes-Benz data card confirms, among other things, Smoke Silver Metallic paint (702U), the Saffron Nappa leather interior (234A), the Java convertible top (745), Xenon lighting (612), heated front seats (873), electrically adjustable front seats with memory (241 and 242), the ESP system (472), the extensive audio system (810), the integrated garage door opener (231), and the auto-dimming interior mirror (249).
It also confirms that the car was originally produced for the American market (code 494) and is a model year 1999 (code 809).
The factory equipment also includes, among other things, an automatically deploying roll bar, ABS, ASR, Brake Assist, front and side airbags, automatic climate control, electric convertible top, removable aluminum hardtop, electrically adjustable and heated exterior mirrors, electrically adjustable steering column with memory function, cruise control, central locking, alarm system, burl wood interior trim, and exclusive Nappa leather upholstery.
The original extra factory options include the SL2 Value Added Package with an American additional price of $1,795, Xenon HID headlights, seat heating, and a six-disc CD changer. The Smoke Silver Metallic paint and Saffron Nappa leather upholstery were included at no additional cost.
TECHNICAL INFORMATION:
Make: Mercedes-Benz
Model: R129 SL500 Cabriolet 5.0L V8
Year: 1999
Color: 702 Smoke Silver Metallic
Engine and power: 5.0L (4966 cc) V8, 302 hp (Matching numbers)
Fuel: Petrol
Transmission: Automatic
Mileage: 154,559 miles
Registration: American title and Dutch import documentation
Chassis/VIN: WDBFA68F8XF185147
EXTRA INFORMATION:
- This Mercedes-Benz is offered with an American title, which means the car is currently not tested and not road-ready.
- Photos are part of the description.
- On request a walk-around video can be provided with the engine running.
- Seller can assist with worldwide transport.
The car can be viewed and picked up in Schiedam, Netherlands. All technical inspections, test drives, and viewings are possible prior to placing a bid. For any questions you can contact the auctioneer.
Details
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Model type
SL500 - NO RESERVE
Year
1999
Located in
Netherlands
Mileage reading
154559 mi
Registration papers
with American registration
Transmission
Automatic
Fuel
Petrol
Colour
702 Smoke Silver Metallic
Horse power
302
Cubic capacity
4966
Matching numbers
Yes
Matching colours
Yes
Service book/history
No
Valid MOT
No
CoC (Certificate of Conformity) present
No
Chassis number
WDBFA68F8XF185147
Condition (Exterior)
Very Good: minor chips or scratches, minor conventional body and paintwork
Condition (Interior)
Very Good: clean, showing minimal wear. May require replacement of minor missing or broken parts
Condition (Frame and Underbody)
Very Good: frame/structure is in a well preserved condition, minor signs of usage/wear
Condition (Mechanical)
Very Good: mechanically sound, may require minor service
Condition (Overall)
Very good condition: minimal signs of wear
Vehicle registration
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Catawiki always aims to offer you the best possible buying experience. Our experts virtually review and select every vehicle in line with our submission guidelines and we require our sellers to provide the most accurate description of the vehicle. However, providing a fully detailed analysis of the vehicle is extremely difficult, and close to impossible. To guide you, we ask our sellers to provide information about the vehicle’s condition. Please consider that most vehicles for sale are classic vehicles and they often already have a whole life behind them, meaning that even a condition 1 or 2 vehicle might need maintenance to be ready for the road. It is advised to carefully read our submission guidelines that further describe details about the condition grades and types to manage your expectations. Cars are sold “as is”, meaning as described and in the condition they are in at the time of the sale and without any representation, warranty or assumption of liability of any kind as to the condition by Catawiki or by the seller. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from yours, your local garage, or the dealer’s opinion. This does not automatically mean the car does not conform to its description. Before bidding, please check your local legislation regarding vehicle registration. Neither the seller nor Catawiki is responsible for the registration of the vehicle in your country and will not accept a cancellation for your failure to register the vehicle. We also recommend that, if possible, you arrange a viewing with the seller before placing a bid.
Catawiki always aims to offer you the best possible buying experience. Our experts virtually review and select every vehicle in line with our submission guidelines and we require our sellers to provide the most accurate description of the vehicle. However, providing a fully detailed analysis of the vehicle is extremely difficult, and close to impossible. To guide you, we ask our sellers to provide information about the vehicle’s condition. Please consider that most vehicles for sale are classic vehicles and they often already have a whole life behind them, meaning that even a condition 1 or 2 vehicle might need maintenance to be ready for the road. It is advised to carefully read our submission guidelines that further describe details about the condition grades and types to manage your expectations. Cars are sold “as is”, meaning as described and in the condition they are in at the time of the sale and without any representation, warranty or assumption of liability of any kind as to the condition by Catawiki or by the seller. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from yours, your local garage, or the dealer’s opinion. This does not automatically mean the car does not conform to its description. Before bidding, please check your local legislation regarding vehicle registration. Neither the seller nor Catawiki is responsible for the registration of the vehicle in your country and will not accept a cancellation for your failure to register the vehicle. We also recommend that, if possible, you arrange a viewing with the seller before placing a bid.
