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SL (R129)

Mercedes-Benz SL (R129) 1989 - Front 3/4 view
Front 3/4
What makes it iconic

The last SL built without compromise. The R129 was over-engineered to a degree that made accountants weep, with an automatic roll bar that deployed in 0.3 seconds.

History

The R129 SL was the most expensive car Mercedes had ever developed at the time. Its pop-up roll bar, electronically controlled suspension, and build quality were unmatched. The SL 600 with its 6.0-liter V12 was the quietest, fastest grand tourer money could buy.

Timeline

1989Production begins
2001Production ends

Production & Heritage

Production Total204,940
DesignerBruno Sacco
Production Period1989-2001
Estimated Value$25K-$60K

Value estimates are editorial assessments based on recent auction results and market trends.

Technical Specifications

Engine5.0L V8 (M119)
Power326 hp
Transmission5-speed automatic
DrivetrainRWD
Weight1,800 kg

Engine Details

Displacement5.0L (4,973 cc)

Performance

Weight-to-Power5.5 kg/hp

Tags

Designed by Bruno Sacco

From the 1980s

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