We have owned our SL 500 for one a month short of three years.

Although I had owned some nice vehicles (1979 Grad Prix, 1984 Trans-Am, 1993 Mazda MX6, 1995 Mazda Cronos, 1989 & 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokees) I was never really passionate about cars.

In a mid life inspired quest, I had begun thinking of getting a powerful car for a toy. I test drove a 300 HP Corvette and found the power to be a lot of fun. I then started to think of combining power and luxury (test drove a few Lexus & BMW).

I had never owned a convertible. I had never owned a two seater.

Needless to say after introducing myself to the MB line of cars, checking out a R170 SL 560 we settled on the 1999 SL 500. In a grand jester that helped make the entire frivolous exercise more palatable for my wife … I bought the car for her 50th birthday present.

As it turned out … on my wife’s part there was considerable buyer’s resource to work through. Since the windfall of cash that I had banked on getting got held up. Having to finance part of the purchase (of a second car we really did not need) drove her crazy.

The remorse for her lasted from December to May … when we finally took the hard top off and began enjoying the open air driving. Even though the windfall off cash was eventually released two years later. The value of sun on the face touring eventually reconciled the financial cost.

For me … since I was more into the power. The pay off was immediate. December rain or May sun shine I was booting it every chance I could. Having a great time exploring the’s capabilities. Had become a lead footed monster according to my wife.

We both grew to love the looks, solid feel and subtle luxury of the car. I remember the day we put a special CD in to play … cranked the volume more than normal and realized WOW this 9 speaker Bose audio system is great!

I catch people admiring the looks of the car as we drive around town Some will voice their approval and surprise that the car is a 1999 model. Great classic styling never gets old.

I now wash and wax on a regular basis as a labor of love. I never did that before with any vehicle.

The SL 500 has become a key part of our life. A source of constant pleasure.

A strong response to fit any mood. Addicting like nicotine I guess.

I wish I had discovered this 20 years ago. So much pleasure missed in that time!

We will never be without a SL again.

At the cost on the used market. The quality, luxury and performance the R129 offers. It is truly a “super car” available at affordable prices. One of the finest cars to ever exit a production line ever! Believe it!

 

Mine Is Priceless To Me!

 

We would all be outlaws if cars this fun were made illegal.

 

Very nice writeup, ChrisB. You and mebeJOE should really consider writing a book on the R129.

I really enjoy my SL, and I thank all those on this board that helped me make my decision to buy such a fabulous car.

Will

 

ChrisB that's a good write up. I have owned various Mecedes products for the last 30+ years. I always thought that my 76 450 SL was the ultimate fun car. That was until I drove my 98 500 SL. There is nothing on the road that compares with this car. For the first time in my life I am truly in love with a car. At the ripe old age of 76, I feel like a young kid with a new toy. There is a certain mistique about the 129 that only true lovers of the marque can experience. Enjoy the ride.

 

Hey, Hotel, thanks for the honorable mention in ChrisB's thread. But I've only had my baby for a few months, so I am not ready to write a book.

 

Man my hat is off to you.

I love the spirit exprssed in your reply.

If I eventually trade up (tempted beyond reason) to say a R230 SL 600 ... I could be writing exactly the same post 27 years from now!

Enjoy that R129!