SL/R129: When did the second gen R129 start?
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 60
Likes: 1
997.2 GT3, E90 M3
When did the second gen R129 start?
Hi all, I have been looking for the right R129 for awhile now and as a result I've come across many cars. One that is currently on the market puzzles me as it appears to have a mix of gen 1 and gen 2. The car in question is built in March 96, and has all the hall mark of gen 2 (exterior, steering wheel, seats, 5 speed etc) except for:
1. Older style HVAC control units
2. Bornite in colour (which I believe is only for the gen 1 cars)
Can someone confirm if this has the wiring loom fix from the factory? And would the vin provide the answer as to whether this is gen 1 or gen 2 car?
Thanking in advanced!
1. Older style HVAC control units
2. Bornite in colour (which I believe is only for the gen 1 cars)
Can someone confirm if this has the wiring loom fix from the factory? And would the vin provide the answer as to whether this is gen 1 or gen 2 car?
Thanking in advanced!
Last edited by WAY; Dec 19, 2022 at 06:35 AM.
Member
Joined: Feb 2018
Posts: 101
Likes: 14
From: Helsinki
R129.067 (500SL '93), EQE, MGB
HVAC control was changed in Jul 1996. Seat design was changed in the 1st facelift Sep 1995. Bornit was available up to 1996. The only way to confirm whether the engine harnesses have been fixed is to have a look on them (or manufacturing dates on the harnesses). Engines M119 and M120 with LH Jetronic SFI are especially prone to crumbling wire insulation. VIN may help or not. IMO your details point to facelift 1996 model.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 2,665
Likes: 208
From: Bahrain
R129 SL55 AMG & W208 CLK55 AMG
