1990 Mercedes-Benz 500SL

Following the words of several influential commentators. the world is quickly waking up to what incredible cars these R129 SLs are. and how hugely undervalued they currently are. The advice of those in the know is that now is the time to buy as values are starting to follow the revered R107.

From a collectors' viewpoint. the most desirable R129 is surely an early example of the most powerful ‘500' model in completely standard. unmolested condition. Low mileage and in classic Mercedes silver. which suits the sleek shape perfectly. Indeed it was the colour Mercedes chose to launch the model in.

This car fits all those criteria. Supplied new by Sunningdale. Ascot on 01/10/1990 in Astral Silver with black leather interior and hood. It has covered just 43K miles from new and a full service history. The car comes with all its original books and manuals. even including the running in instructions. Together with the fully stamped service books there's a substantial folder of supporting receipts for service and repair going back to its PDI in 1990. HPI certificate included. Excellent provenance.

We have been all over this Mercedes with our paint depth gauge and can confirm that it is completely original paint. It has never seen a bodyshop throughout its 25-year life and remains in immaculate condition.

What's so nice about this example is that. unlike many. it remains completely correct in appearance with no ill-advised cosmetic modifications – correct two-tone paintwork. correct amber indicators and correct eight-hole alloy wheels.

Inside. this early R129 has the much more attractive non-airbag steering wheel. Commensurate with its very low mileage the trim is superb throughout with no wear to the leather seats. All electrical accessories are working correctly – there are no warning lights displayed and the air conditioning is ice cold. Importantly the electric hood (the original hood) works exactly as intended. The factory hardtop (in matching silver) comes with the car and is in immaculate order.

On the road this 500SL performs exactly as intended – a fast. refined and sophisticated GT convertible. Factory oil pressure and a seamless four-speed automatic gearbox.

Just been serviced and recently fitted with a matching set of new Continental Premium Contact tyres. along with new under-bonnet sound deadening.

When you consider this was equivalent of a £100k car new. built at the height of Mercedes quality and very much state of the art in its day. this car represents amazing value. As an investment. its value can only go one way.

Also published at eBay.co.uk

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