SPECIALIST CARS - ENTHUSIAST BUYERS

REGISTER TO BID
REGISTER TO BID
Account Login

Please login to bid on an auction or manage your account.

Login Details
SIGN UP
Keep up to date
Keep up to date with all things Trade Classics, along with new cars.
Curated Auction

1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 320 (R129)

At a Glance

Very Low Mileage | ~23 Years Owned | Highly Original | Investment Quality

  • Mileage~32,551
  • TransmissionAutomatic
  • Engine3.2L
  • LocationRotherham

Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below – we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report – learn more

Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below – we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report – learn more

CURATED AUCTION

Days
HRS
MIN
SEC
CURRENT BID£5,100
See Bidding
Register TO BID

AUCTION LIVE

ENDS IN: 56 Days 12 Hr 51 Min 51 Sec

CURRENT BID

£5,100

See Bidding
Video #2

Introduction

Paul Wright
Professional Consigner

Sleek and smooth, the R129 was a major improvement over its predecessor.

Launched at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1989, the Mercedes-Benz R129 platform directly replaced the R107 from the previous decade. It brought with it a number of advancements, including a concealed roll-over bar and an adaptive damping system, making it one of the safest vehicles of its time. From the 1998 model year onwards, the SL 320 received a facelift that included new wheel designs, body-coloured bumpers and door handles, and a soft Nappa leather interior. In addition, the 3.2-litre V6 engine was introduced, replacing the earlier straight-six. These updates gave the car a more modern exterior, a more luxurious interior, and a refined powertrain.

This particular example is offered from ~23 years of ownership, during which time it has covered an astonishingly low ~11,000 miles, and rarely seen on an R129 "Obsidian Black" over "Mushroom" specification. The car has a great history with regular servicing and it comes with a current MOT valid until 06.04.2026. This is quite possibly one of the lowest mileage and most original SL 320 that we have had the pleasure of offering at auction - a must for collectors with future investment potential in mind.

This listing was written from information supplied by Paul after meeting Wendy the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Video #2

Meet the owner

In my 20s, the Mercedes SL 320 was one of the cars I admired, but they were just so expensive at the time.

In 2002 Wendy was told by a good friend that a very nice SL 320 was about to be sold. The car was four years old with low mileage, in excellent condition, and came with a full Mercedes service history. The friend asked whether Wendy would be interested in buying it. Wendy had little hesitation - her friend knew the owners and, more importantly, the car’s provenance. It was love at first sight Wendy told us and it has been a delight to own.

Wendy said, "It will be a sad day when my Mercedes leaves me, but I now need the garage space it occupies. I think it’s the right time for someone else to enjoy the pleasure of owning her."

Wendy will be available to answer any questions in the comments section below.

Wendy
Vehicle Owner

Ask Questions

CONTACT OWNER
EXTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Exterior

A removable hardtop was nothing new to Mercedes, but the addition of an electric soft-top roof marked the beginning of a new era.

Wheels and Tyres

Fitted with the original eight-hole alloy wheels, these remain in generally good condition for their age. Some light kerb marks and minor white worm are present, but considering their age, they are holding up very well - Wendy has decided to leave them in original condition on purpose so the new owner can choose what to do with them, i.e. leave or restore.

The Pirelli tyres are a matching set and retain good tread, though they are of an age where replacement would be advisable soon.

Please see the image gallery for detailed shots.

image

Bodywork

The bodywork on this SL 320 is superb. There are no dings or dents to note, and all panels align precisely - as they did when the car left the factory.

The hardtop is also in excellent condition, with no damage to mention.

High-resolution images and videos have been provided, so please review all media to assess the car’s condition thoroughly.

image

Paint

Finished in Obsidian Black, the paintwork is excellent, as clearly shown in the photographs.

Being picky there are a couple of very minor blemishes, but nothing excessive.

Images are taken from multiple angles to give you a realistic impression of the car, just as if you were standing beside it. Please take the time to examine these high-resolution images and videos to assess the condition for yourself.

image

Glass and Trim

The windows are all in excellent condition with no noticeable scratches.

All trims and seals are free from perishing or shrinkage, thanks to over two decades of dry, warm storage.

The fabric roof operates correctly and remains in good condition.

The under-bonnet insulation has begun to perish with age and could do with replacement.

image
VIEW ALL
INTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Interior

A Mushroom leather interior with fully electric seats was a hallmark of luxury in the late 1990s.

Seats and Carpets

The full leather electric seats are in excellent condition, with minimal signs of age and all functions working as expected.

The door cards are free from scuffs or scratches.

The beige carpets are equally well-preserved, protected by factory mats that are also in very good condition.

image

Dashboard

The dashboard matches the rest of the interior and is free from any damage. All instruments work correctly, and the odometer shows the remarkably low mileage of ~32,551 miles at the time of our visit.

One note: when the engine is running, a warning light sometimes shows the roll bar is up even when it's down. Switching the ignition off and on clears this. The roll bar itself operates correctly.

image

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The optional leather and wood steering wheel is in excellent condition, showing no signs of age.

Please refer to the interior gallery for more images.

image
VIEW ALL
'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO
Video #2

Mechanics

Reliable and strong the 3.2-litre is a fantastic choice of engine for the SL offering performance and economy.

Engine and Gearbox

The 3.2-litre V6 engine starts without hesitation, as seen in our cold start video, and runs smoothly with no issues reported.

Power delivery is strong, and the automatic gearbox shifts seamlessly.

image

Suspension and Brakes

Thanks to the low mileage the Mercedes feels tight on the road, with no knocks or bangs and is super smooth soaking up the road with ease.

The brakes perform well, bringing the car to a stop in a straight line with no juddering.

image

The Drive

Driving the 1998 Mercedes SL 320 is a smooth and refined experience. Its 3.2-litre V6 provides effortless power, and the car offers relaxed, comfortable cruising.

The ride is supple, the steering precise, and it excels whether the roof is up or down.

image

Electrics and Other

A nostalgic feature is the original Nokia mobile phone, which is included and sits neatly in its factory holder.

All switchgear is in excellent condition, and everything works as it should, as far as Wendy is aware - including the air conditioning, which blows cold.

image
VIEW ALL
Video #2

History and Paperwork

Original handbooks, service book, and three keys all accompany the car, adding to its provenance.

In addition to the documentation, the SL 320 comes with a strong history of invoices and MOT records, showing regular servicing despite covering just ~11,000 miles in the last ~23 years - it has a current MOT valid until 06.04.2026.

Also included is a winch that attaches to your garage roof, making the removal and refitting of the hardtop a breeze.

This is a true time-warp classic with just ~32,551 miles covered, offered from 23 years of cherished, dry, warm storage and pampering.

We’ve carried out our usual seller checks, including verifying photo ID, the V5C, and an HPI check. This confirms the car has not been stolen, written off, or has any outstanding finance. Please note: This check does not include mileage verification.

We’ve summarised the car based on the seller’s information above. As always, we go to great lengths to photograph and film the car in high-resolution detail so you can make your own informed assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So grab a cuppa, relax, and enjoy reviewing everything in this listing.
Viewings are welcome for all our listings. Please get in touch to arrange a time—we just need to speak with you first and receive valid photo ID before confirming.

If there’s anything you’re unsure about, no matter how small, please ask the owner in the comments section below before placing your bids, as bids cannot be retracted and form a binding contract if you win—just like in a traditional auction house.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
07.04.2025 MOT/Service 32,529
26.04.2023 MOT/Service 32,512
10.06.2021 MOT/Service 32,497
05.07.2019 MOT 32,483
22.06.2016 MOT/Service 32,274
04.06.2015 MOT 32,087
02.06.2014 MOT/Service 31,570
16.05.2013 MOT 31,165
22.05.2012 MOT 31,160
24.05.2011 MOT/Service 30,720
25.05.2010 MOT/Service 30,582
01.05.2009 MOT/Service 30,326
25.04.2008 MOT/Service 30,181
24.04.2007 MOT/Service 29,365
20.02.2006 MOT/Service 28,809
25.02.2005 MOT/Service 27,331
27.02.2004 MOT/Service 26,259
22.02.2003 MOT 22,184
06.02.2002 Service 19,227
04.02.2001 Service 16,405
09.02.2000 Service 12,128
10.02.1999 Service 5,906
VIEW ALL
Key Details
  • Model SL 320 (R129)
  • Transmission Automatic
  • Reg. Date 01.03.1998
  • CC 3,200
  • Mileage ~32,551 on clock
  • Colour Obsidian Black
  • Interior Colour Mushroom
  • Interior Trim Leather
  • Chassis # WDB1290632F159163
  • MOT Yes Exp. 06.04.2026
  • HPi Clear Yes - All Clear
  • Former Keepers 2
  • # of Keys 3
  • LHD or RHD RHD
  • Visited Yes
  • Sale Type Private
  • Owned ~23 Years
  • Key Feature Investor Quality Car
  • Auction ID 2756
VIEW ALL
VIEW ALL
Video #2

All Images

Exterior

Interior

Mechanics

History and Paperwork

All Videos



Vehicle Location

Rotherham

Request A Delivery Calculation



    Auction Bidding

    Live Bidding
    Current Bid £5,100
    £
    REGISTER TO BID
    Countdown Timer
    0 Days
    0 HRS
    0 MIN
    0 SEC
    Auction Ends Thu 29th May at 7.30pm
    Bidding History
    Previous Bids  5
    £5,100 bid by crs197120.05.25 @ 19:56:55
    £3,500 bid by wingleader19.05.25 @ 18:29:40
    £2,500 bid by anthony9716.05.25 @ 08:27:03
    £2,000 bid by danmat123415.05.25 @ 10:56:57
    £1,500 bid by anthony9714.05.25 @ 14:33:52
    SEE MORE BIDS SEE MORE BIDS
    624
    Ask Owner
    Post a comment or ask the owner a question about the car.
    Subscribe
    Notify of
    4 Comments
    MAZGAZ
    MAZGAZ
    2 days ago

    Hi Wendy, would it be possible to view the car at your convenience.?

    Adam Purrier - Trade Classics
    Adam Purrier - Trade Classics
    Admin
      MAZGAZ
    2 days ago

    @mazgaz thanks for your message – please send an email to hello@tradeclassics.com to request as we just need to go though some ID checks first and get availability. Cheers Adam

    anthony97
    anthony97
    6 days ago

    Hi Wendy, just a quick note on the front lights. Usually they have wipers? We’re these removed?

    WendyF
    WendyF
    Seller
      anthony97
    6 days ago

    Hi, the car to my knowledge has never had headlight wipers and there is no indication that anything has been removed.

    MORE COMMENTS MORE COMMENTS

    Market View

    We think this car has great investment potential and will be hot property at auction, with Designo Editions pushing the market up on cars like this one, and achieving strong money.

    We’re sure you have a good idea of the value of this vehicle by studying our thorough listing, however, you may be interested to see a selection of recent sales of the same and / or similar models.

    2000 Mercedes-Benz SL 320 Edition Designo (R129)

    Auction House Us - Trade Classics

    Sale Date 21 Apr 22

    Sold Price £23,320

    SEE AUCTION

    1999 Mercedes-Benz SL 320 (R129)

    Auction House Collecting Cars

    Sale Date 19 Oct 21

    Sold Price £22,300

    SEE AUCTION

    1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 320 (R129)

    Auction House Silverstone Auctions

    Sale Date 16 Jul 22

    Sold Price £17,677

    SEE AUCTION

    Insurance Quote


    Average annual insurance premium for a SL 320 like this is £170 via our trusted partner ClassicLine.
    GET AN INSURANCE QUOTEAnd get 10% off when you mention us.

    *Quote is based on a garaged vehicle in CV32 5QY (Leamington Spa), travelling 3,000 miles per year, 1 driver who is 45 years of age and is free on accidents and convictions – valid Spring 2025.

    Delivery Calculator


    Vehicle Location

    Rotherham

    Key Bidding Facts

    What is your reserve policy?

    A reserve is the minimum price a seller is willing to accept for their vehicle. We work closely with sellers to set realistic reserves that reflect current market values — we don’t take on vehicles with inflated or unrealistic expectations.

    If the reserve isn’t met when the auction ends, we’ll work with the highest bidder to try and agree a deal with the seller.

    Whether the reserve has been met may / may not be disclosed during the auction — just like a traditional auction house. Bidders usually find out if they’ve won only when the auction ends.

    As a guide:
    – If you’re able to place a second bid, the reserve hasn’t been met.
    – If you attempt to outbid yourself and the system blocks it, then the reserve has been met.

    Why shouldn’t I leave bidding to the last minute?

    Auto-Extending Bidding – we’ve developed auto-extending auctions that mimic traditional auction house bidding; it’s a key feature to make sure classic vehicles achieve their true worth. Bids placed in the last one minute automatically extend the auction by two further minutes. So there is no need to leave bidding to the last second.

    Security – we operate higher levels of security, so you may need to enter further authorisations against your stored card after you select ‘Place Bid’. All this takes time and may mean you miss the end of the auction by the time the authorisation passes. To guarantee your bid, we recommend at least five minutes are active on the auction when you place your bid.

    Register Account

    Please create an account to bid on our auctions and stay up-to-date by receiving our weekly auction update.

    Complete Form