Bruno-Sacco 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL500: Is it a Classic Yet?
Is it just us, or does the R129 SL500 get better by the year?
Few nameplates throughout automotive history carry the same cachet as Mercedes’ SL-Class. From the race-focused 300SL of the 1950s, the impossibly beautiful W113 model of the ’60s and ’70s, and the Teutonic cool of the R107s of the ’70s and ’80s, the SL is the ultimate in German grand touring. And while each generation has seen prices climb in recent years, demand for the R129 model of 1989 to 2001 has remained in the basement.
Why? Well, the car was bigger, heavier, and more luxury-focused than its predecessors (save for the fire-breathing AMG models). But it was also a technological pioneer and benefits from the final days of Mercedes’ spare-no-expense build quality. Mark our words: If you’re in the market for one, pick one up now. Otherwise, you may be kicking yourself in a few years.
For example, take this Silverado sand-over-tan leather 1999 SL500 from ClassicCars.com This car has just 94,000 miles on the odometer, meaning its 302-horse 5.0 liter V8 has plenty of life left in it. Details are scarce, but the seller has plenty of detailed pictures to set the stage. The body and wheels are in great shape, with no noticeable flaws – even the headlights are crystal clear.
Inside, the car shows its mileage, but it’s nothing that should raise any real red flags. There are some creases in the leather, the handle on the armrest bin is slightly askew, and the walnut trim could use a good polishing, but none of those things are deal-breakers in our book. Plus, it comes with the original color-matched hardtop, which is always a plus.
ALSO SEE: Does the Mercedes-Benz Metris Really Deserve its Bum Rap?
We’ve always liked the Bruno Sacco-penned lines of the R129. To us, they seem to age better and better with each passing year. And while the sand-over-tan combination probably won’t get your heart racing, this is an honest example of a well-designed, late ’90s luxury vehicle that encapsulates many decades of brilliant design from years past. To us, this makes the R129’s “classic” status fast-approaching.
Photos: Gateway Classic Cars
Join the MB World forums now!
