MercedesTheBest

does anyone know anything about the 1997 SL600? is it reliable? i heard that the earlier year 600 engines were not the most reliable and i am wondering if any knows if this was fixed by 1997. i know 1997 was the first year for a few features like the rain sensing windshield wipers. is this car worth it? provided it has been kept in good condition.

Jimmy Chen Shib

I have had my 97 SL600 since 1999 ! Here in Japan, the year '97 was the last year for V12 SL600 R129 model to be introduced. In other words, being the terminal year, most of the bugs in earlier years were taken care of. The engine is reliable and bullet proof indeed, so smooth and quiet that is seems like it is an electric car, yet powerful and full of torque.

Saying that, if you are looking for one, condition and prior maintenance history are crucial factors for a reliable one to buy.

Yes, it has the rain sensor wiper as standard, which is a nice feature, but then it is just one of the many comfort features.

w/ smiles
Jimmy

MercedesTheBest

how it the panoramic roof? is it worth holding out for one? the one im looking at doesn't have it.

WhiteSL500

I have a 97 SL500 with a panoramic roof and i love it. Its personal preference really. I feel that the panoramic compared to the standard roof gives the car a much sleeker look. Seems to look like it fits better on the car. Again, though it's just a matter of personal preference.

SRHsl600

M120 engine in the year I have is wonderful. The wiring harness issue had been swept under the rug by the time a 97 was built. Each creature comfort item MB adds has been well tested. My experience with a sedan ( 2004 ) that has the rain sensor has been nothing but the expected. How much do you use the metal roof? Most of the time, for me, the soft top is down and the metal top is on its rack!!! My car is a fair weather cruiser! Pano's are for sale on line so if the maintenance is documented and a qualified inspection meets your cost benefit ratio go for it!