1998 Mercedes-Benz R129 SL500 with Black Leather (231)

Elsewhere in the SLSHOP inventory we’ve championed a splash of bright colour on a R129 SL, and we’re going to contradict ourselves here by saying we also love it finished in black. That’s Obsidian Black here, with the first owner also specifying the interior be covered in black leather to match the exterior. With its 5.0-litre V8 producing 320hp, the SL 500 is a quick, capable and enjoyable car to drive today, with the added reassurance of standard fitment of ESP (Electronic Stability Control). This example has covered 77,551 miles since being registered in 1998 though it presents so nicely you’d believe it’s done significantly less.

Beautiful as it is in black, it’s a hugely unforgiving colour to any imperfections in the bodywork. There are few here, this SL 500 free from parking dings and scuffs, with its previous owners clearly having looked after it. The paint only hampered by swirl marks and minor chips on door edges. That’s true inside, with the interior showing little signs of use, save for a slightly soft driver’s seat bolster. Supplied with its hardtop, and wind deflector, the fabric roof is exhibiting some evidence of being stowed folded for 26 years, but that’s not uncommon, and the plastic windows are free of any misting or cracks. Lifting the bonnet reveals more of the same, that being evidence of a car that’s been well looked after and maintained, with it lacking the surface corrosion that’s seen on cars that have seen prolonged use in the winter months. The wheels show some little scuffs and surface pitting, but they’re easily refurbished, perhaps in the diamond cut finish that the spare wheel features.

There’s a lot of receipts and paperwork from both main Mercedes-Benz dealerships and independent specialists testifying to the fact its previous owners have spent money caring and maintaining it, and the condition it presents as underlines that. What isn’t among the thick sheaves of paper is documents about this car’s earlier life, though that’s not unusual with a car of this age, and not really a concern. There’s plenty of MOTs to verify the mileage and previous HPI reports, as well as the manual for the aftermarket Alpine stereo head unit that’s been fitted.

A fine-looking SL 500 that’s in good overall condition, that’s ready to be enjoyed this summer. It’s a few minor jobs – wheel refurbishment, full paintwork polish and hood clean – away from being in near-perfect condition. These SL 500s can hold their own in modern traffic and are great all-round cars, whether you’re buying to use frequently, or keep for special days, this example it ready to go.