Hiscedes

Hello y’all! I Recently I purchased my second R129 SL500 (MY 1998) which includes a couple uninstalled upgrades. Some 1999-02 Brembo Calipers with break lines were included, they have been rebuilt and powder coated with Brembo lettering and look very sharp. Some HR lowering springs and adaptors were also included. I am thinking I am not going to gain much handling improvement with the springs and I would prefer the function of the ground clearance more than the form of the lowered car. Do y’all agree that it won’t affect handling much?

The Brembo brakes I am more seriously considering… yes in part cause Brembo is fancy and they look cool but I am wondering if there will be any real performance improvements considering I drive my car much harder than the average owner. Also, how difficult is the install of the new brakes? I’m sure I’ll need some hardware and the shorter control arms, anything else particularly expensive or difficult?

I would argue my 1998 is the cleanest over 100,000 miles of any and I enjoy the car a lot so I am alright with putting some money into it. If anyone is particularly interested in either part, definitely shoot me a PM as I am not set on either upgrade.

mahunt

The brakes are a very noticeable improvement. I have them and would recommend the upgrade to anyone looking for better braking,

At 2 and a quarter tons, the R129 cars are not really meant for spirited handling. However, the car does make for a very nice GT for road trips. And the top goes down too.

Hiscedes

Noticeable in what regard… pedal feel? less fade?

mahunt

No fade and quicker stopping.

I consider them a mandatory upgrade for the pre 99 V12 cars which are even heavier than the regular R129 cars.

They bolt right on.

AndreasHannover

Not after my conversion, but more reserve if you really drive your car much harder than the average owner.The brake discs are thicker and can handle more heat. But you will need 17" or more rims.

mahunt

True about the 17 inch rims and the Brembos.

Don't forget the spare.