DesireeB

I'm going to look at a 99 SL600 AMG with 30,000 km on it and had a couple questions:

- Is there such a thing as a true AMG or is it only AMG trim package?

- It's listed as a manual transmission, is that possible?

- What should I be looking for ... Besides leaking top cylinders...

- Is it a good idea to have inspection done by a Mercedes dealer?

Thank

SLCL

There is no such thing as "99 SL600 AMG". A lot of people claim they have AMG while they don't even have the sport package!

I've never heard of 99 SL600 with manual either. Watch out for ADS failures on these cars (standard on SL600 and optional on the other SLs).

You should have the car checked at the dealer of YOUR choice. Don't let the seller chose the dealer. Good luck

DesireeB

Thanks, I was concerned since there were inconsistencies with a few things they were saying. Appreciate the reply and words of wisdom. As a newbie to MB's I'm nervious of making the wrong choice of which one to buy.

SLCL

No problem. These cars cost a lot to keep up but if you can do works on them, you should be fine.

You might also want to update your profile (where you live and car model/year and stuff). You'd get better help that way.

Welcome to mbworld. Keep up posted if you decide to get the car.

Jimmy Chen Shib

I am not certain but I do recall years ago in the late '90s dealer catalogue here in Japan seeing SL600 AMG, and was automatic. I may have the catalogue stowed away somewhere still. If you are interested, let me know and I shall look for it. w/ smiles Jimmy

Jimmy Chen Shib

I did check my old catalogues and here in Japan at least, back in the latter part of '90s, the official importers here did offer AMG SL600, along with other variations. w/ smiles Jimmy

SLCL

1999 SL600 AMG?

I've seen SL60 AMG but not SL600 AMG (at least for 1999 MY). Perhaps there is something in Japan that I am not aware of.

Jimmy Chen Shib

I believe the catalogue I have was models at around '97 or so. Apparently, things must be different among countries, for example my '97 SL600 is the final year model for R129 and if I am not mistaken, I understand R129s were offered beyond '97 in the States.
As such, the AMG pamphlet listed several models of R129 AMGs, including the AMG SL7.2 model R129 and AMG SL500 6.0 model R129. w/ smiles Jimmy
PS. All were automatic, by the way.

SLCL

1997 was the last year they offered SL320 (V6) in the States. From 1998 to 2002, there were only SL500 and SL600 (R129). I believe starting in 1999, there were only two digits for all the AMGs (32, 43, 55, 63, 65, etc). There were a few R129 SL55s made but never made it to US. I don't think 1999 SL600 AMG, if ever existed, made to the States (just like B class I've seen all over in Canada). Thanks for letting me know about the Japan models.

DesireeB: sorry to sidetrack your thread. Did you manage to get that car?

Jimmy Chen Shib

+1. Sorry for diversion. w/ smilies Jimmy

DesireeB

Thanks everyone for the feedback. The V12 scared me away...it was an AMG with an automatic and not a standard...imported from the USA.

I'm going with a '98 with the V8 with 90,000km from a guy that has a garage that was cleaner than my house (no small feat since I'm pretty picky!). The Mercedes dealer is doing the inspection tomorrow morning so unless there is a surprise from the inspection I'll have it in the afternoon. Only issue I could find was a small rip in back plastic window that a specialty shop tells be they can replace the back half of the top with the windows for under $1000, they had references that made me feel comfortable that they knew what they were doing. Thanks everyone!

Jimmy Chen Shib

Happy for you that you found the right car. Enjoy in good health. w/ smiles Jimmy

slicksldriver

They had the AMG sport package. Appearance wise the AMG versions were gorgeous, along with suspension upgrades. No difference with power or anything.