Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (1989 - 2002) SL500 2d Auto (1998/S) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

That I appreciate a classic!

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Most like it.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Definitely. The cost of ownership of the R129 SL model is surprisingly low. At low mileage it only needs servicing every 2 years, and with good Mobil1 no reason to service more often. The tax disc is very reasonable compared to the later R230 SL model and the quality means that, as long as you buy carefully, you should not have high repair bills and as you will have let others take the high depreciation the value should not decline much.

What are you likely to buy next?

I dont have any plans to change for many years, but maybe a Jag XKR.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£10,600

When did you buy the car?

March 2008

Did you get a good deal and why?

Spent ages checking history and condition of the car. Negotiated down on some items that needed attention.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Soft top refined driving.

What was the dealer like?

N/A. Private sale.

What's it like to drive?

Excellent. The 5 litre is definitely the model to have, so much power on tap! Great with the roof down in the sun. Still gets admiring looks (car, not me). 18" alloys make for a firm ride. Great long distance cruiser.

What's it like to park?

If you know the theory of good parking you can park anything!

Have you had any problems with the car?

I bought knowing the aircon was faulty. New condenser fixed this. MAF failed, local Merc indy fixed this. Apart from this - total reliability.

What's most practical about your car?

I didnt buy it for its practicality!

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Soft top and 18" Brabus alloys.