irishattorney

Hi,

I am looking for a R129, either 320 or 500.

With these cars being 15 years old, how are the two holding up? Either better with maintenance? last longer?

What are the opinions on these two cars?

kostas86

If you're not worried about gas mileage, I would go with the 500. The V8 motor if properly maintained is amazing and will last forever. I have seen more issues with the V6 motors than the V8.

SRHsl600

Since you already have the muscle version SL in a new style, the six may make a nice addition. As you already know past service and owner care is everything.
In a past contact, you asked about the 12, so am assuming you found no good answer with the M120. My experience has been positive with the M119 and have not owned a six in the modern area (280SL in the 80"s but that level of complication was all my mechanical talents could wrap around! )
Good luck with your hunt

lkchris

Don't think any USA R129s were sold with V6 engine.

kostas86

Yes V6 option was offered in early '90s.

deanyel

Mercedes didn't make a V6 on anything until 1998. The I6 was offered on the 129 from 1990 to 1997, at which point 129 sixes were discontinued (U.S.).

kostas86

That's what I meant.

manross

I agree with SRHsl600 . I absolutely love my I-6. It's got more than enough get-up-and-go with better fuel economy than the 8. If I keep my foot out of it I get 22 mpg. Of course I don't know of anyone with any 3 versions of this car that keeps their foot out of it. Why when you can have fun and who cares about the mileage.

Poundy

The 500 is the way to go, it can hold it's own against almost anything at the traffic lights as long as the BD Sequence is used. Looks sexy, hard, soft or no top on. It can be expensive to maintain, but like a beautiful woman it's a pleasure to spend your hard earned on.