The Mercedes-Benz R129 SL roadsters were produced from 1989 through to 2002. Designed in 1984, they were based on the shortened floor-pan of the Mercedes-Benz W124 and featured many innovative details for the time, for instance electronically controlled damping (optional) and a hidden, automatically extending roll-over bar. The R107's rather dated rear diagonal swing axle gave way to a modern multi-link axle. The number of standard features was high with electric action for the windows, mirrors, seats and convertible top. The R129 received heightened media attention in Great Britain in 1991 when Diana, Princess of Wales sold her Jaguar XJS to lease a metallic-red 500 SL and became the first member of the Royal Family to use a foreign car. This was not without controversy as it sparked a media storm and questioned whether a member of a British royalty should drive foreign cars. Media pressure eventually forced her to return the car to Mercedes-Benz in 1992 and it now resides in their museum.
This two owner 1992 300 SL-24 has only covered 23,800 miles from new which is confirmed with a full Mercedes-Benz service history. The car was supplied with a number of optional extras including five speed gearbox, eight hole alloy wheels, air conditioning, burr walnut woodwork, rear seats, multi-stack CD player and wind deflector, as well as cruise control, heated seats and headlamp wash-wipers. This very original example still has the dealer supplied sweets and de-icer in the glove box, it also has all its original tools, first aid kit and car cover. Finished in pearl grey with matching hardtop, black soft top and grey leather interior, this 300 SL has just been MoTd by a Mercedes-Benz main agent. It is supplied with a V5C registration document, an MoT test certificate, spare key and a file containing a replacement service book, a letter from Mercedes-Benz listing the earlier services and old MoT test certificates and invoices. With the values of the earlier R107 Mercedes-Benz values on the rise, this is an opportunity to acquire a very low mileage, practical R129 before they follow suit. One for the future and an ideal car for the summer.