Bring a Trailer auction preview: 39k mile California car, AMG equipped.VIN – WDBFA68F51F196856Exterior Color – BlackInterior Color – Beige leatherEngine – 5.0 Liter V8Transmission – 5-speed automatic Current Miles – 38,826 milesOwner Purchase – Purchased in 2003Miles Driven by Owner – 6,000 milesGeneral OverviewIntroduced in 1988 with an active production run spanning into 2001, the R129 represented an all new evolution with a completely redesigned dynamic exterior, new interior amenities, and annual improvements with a significant refresh in 1999 that included the updated M113 V8 engine, full Nappa leather, new taillights, standard 17” wheels, one-touch starting, and other improvements to help carry the final two years of production as the replacement model would arrive as well in 2001. 

The ideal combination of performance and luxury in a convertible, the SL 500 is steeped in Mercedes-Benz traditions, but in this truly exceptional effort, Mercedes-Benz elevated the sporting elegance in a fully modern iteration. Now 26 years later, these ‘classic’ analog SL 500s have become highly sought after as they capture the magic of open roadster performance with the comforts of premium audio, beautiful leather trimmed finishes, excellent climate control, and multi-adjustable power seats. History of This CarThis SL 500 has been a California car since delivered new to the first owner January 18, 2001, where it was titled and registered in Pleasanton, CA. Consecutive miles accumulated through 2003 (27,974 miles) as the car was serviced at various Northern California service centers and passed California emissions inspections. In June 2003, the second owner purchased the car, retaining it until selling it to the third and current owner in 2004 with approximately 33,000 miles. The current owner has maintained the vehicle, used it sparingly over the past 20 years while sustaining the low mile status with just under 39,000 miles accumulated and displayed on the six-digit odometer. Copies of service records under current ownership included with the car outline the following maintenance and repairs performed by The Best Shop, Oakland, CA.April 2008, 35,374 miles – Oil and filter service, B service, new antenna mast, replace A/C dust filterAugust 2009, 35,856 miles – AC charge and replace right front lower bumper panelSeptember 2011, 36,777 miles – A service, replace AC compressor, replace receiver drier, switch, replace unibelt. Oil and filter change using synthetic oil. April 2018, 38,252 miles – Oil and filter (synthetic), platinum plugs, new ignition coil, ignition wires, new fuel pump, fuel pump relay, and filter, new crank sensor and mass air flow sensor, and a new hood insulation pad. March 2020, 38,401 miles – C service (synthetic oil), brake fluid flush, new rear carrier bushings, new front struts and strut mounts, tie rod, new motor and transmission mounts, wheel alignment. April 2020, 38,401miles – New alternator, battery, new belt tensioner and idler pulley. January 2026, 38,823 miles – New battery installed, reset, repair Right Front wheel and balance wheel. General Condition Today this SL 500 presents as an excellent example finished in elegant black over tan leather interior. The exterior finish has been measured with a digital paint meter returning single digit thicknesses consistent with factory applied paint. The smooth and glossy black finish is in excellent condition with only minor road chips as typically found on the front facing surfaces. All glass, clear front and rear lenses, and exterior body trim are in excellent cosmetic condition including the front and rear body colored bumper caps. The body is free from major blemishes with a few expected scuffs on the underside edge of the front air dam displaying typical evidence of low driveway use at the lower portion of the front fascia. All openings function properly with excellent closure, proper gapping, and crisp fit to front and rear bumper caps. A set of chrome wheels wear Sumitomo HTR Z 245/40 ZR18 front and 275/35 ZR18 rear tires.Inside the car, the supple, factory fresh beige leather interior exhibits excellent finishes throughout including the seat bottom of the driver’s seat cushion and the left side seat bolster, both of which remain quite nice. All interior components have been beautifully maintained including smooth and supple leather trimmed door panels, excellent stitching, sculpted dash, and beautifully finished headliner for the hardtop and inside liner for the soft convertible top. An AM/FM audio system and trunk mounted multiple cartridge CD player are mounted while both the air conditioning and heat function properly. The power retractable convertible top operates smoothly, stowing under the rear deck hard cover while the hard top is easily latched in place, ideal for more inclement weather. Ample space is available in the trunk for a golf bag or weekend luggage. The trunk is properly lined with matching factory beige carpet along with various tire changing tools and a spare wheel stored beneath the carpeted floor panel. Under the hood, the powerful 5.0 V8 engine offers well balanced performance which is impressively packaged in such a manageable road car. The engine has been meticulously maintained both mechanically and cosmetically, showing proper care and detailing to support the indicated low miles. Factory components, trim, and manufacturer’s engine compartment stickers remain in place, all of which are in excellent cosmetic condition. The undercarriage condition is consistent with the noted miles and Carfax records. There is no visual evidence of structural compromise to the chassis or major suspension anchor points. Suspension and various exposed components revealed in the underside are also in excellent condition, displaying a clean and stock appearance. Driving this SL 500 reveals a wonderful blend of power and poise. Under daily use, even while idling in traffic, the car is docile and friendly with power on tap when needed. The power steering is comfortable but still offers road feel for more spirited driving. Adding to the driving delight, with the press of a switch, the convertible top drops into the rear storage area and is easily raised into place when closed. The hardtop seals properly and the refreshing AC blows cold on all fan settings, Controls are easy to use, as is the sound system and trunk mounted multi-disc CD system. The driving delights and tremendous value offered in the SL 500 create the perfect combination for those seeking a performance convertible they can readily and regularly enjoy. Items Included with the CarThis beautiful Mercedes-Benz is accompanied by a hardtop cover, a factory hardtop finished in matching black, a hardtop stand, an owner’s manual and Quick Tips guidebook, and a set of tools and tool roll.