1995 Mercedes-Benz 500 SL (R129) |

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1995 Mercedes-Benz 500 SL (R129)

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Mileage~112,680 on clock
TransmissionAutomatic
Engine5.0-litre V8
LocationPortishead, Bristol

AUCTION CLOSED

1995 Mercedes-Benz 500 SL (R129)

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Introduction

Jacob Boodrie

Professional Consigner

Mercedes-Benz perfectly blended 1990s angular styling with solid German engineering to produce what is now a true modern classic - the R129.

What is the most thoroughly engineered convertible on the classic car scene today? The R129 must surely be near the top of that list. The 500 SL was the flagship model, powered by the bombproof M119 5.0-litre V8 — an engine that produced more power than some Ferraris of the same era.

It was also one of the safest cars of its time, equipped with Mercedes’ innovative automatic roll bar (“Wunderbar”), which deploys within milliseconds in the event of a rollover. Even today, the R129 is regarded as an exceptionally safe sports car to own.

This handsome example has been in the same family for many years, owned by Nick for the past three and previously by his father. Presented in Azurite Blue over grey leather, with long-term family ownership and service history, it makes for a very attractive package as it heads to auction with us.

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

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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.

Meet the owner

This 500 SL, presented in elegant Azurite Blue, has been cherished for many years and enjoyed only on fine-weather days.

Nick has thoroughly enjoyed his SL ownership over the past three years and has invested in maintaining his father’s 500 SL, to keep it in good running order.

However, with not as much opportunity to use the car in recent times, Nick has decided to part ways in favour of something a little more practical.

Nick will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have in the comments below.

Nick

Vehicle Owner

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Exterior
Interior
Mechanics
History
All Images

EXTERIOR VIDEO

Exterior

The timeless lines of the R129 have aged gracefully, giving the car a presence that remains both sophisticated and understated.

Wheels and Tyres

The 16" wheels, finished in silver, look in good condition. During our visit, the wheels appear well cared for, with no sign of any obvious damage to any of the surfaces, but there are slight signs of age to the inner Mercedes badges.

The wheels are fitted with Kumho Ecsta SPT tyres, and these also appear to be in good visual condition dated 2008, with a good amount of tread remaining and no visible cracking, or signs of age on the sidewalls.

Bodywork

The bodywork looks in good condition too, with all the panel gaps around the car appearing to align well. During our visit, we didn't spot any obvious damage around the bodywork. We did notice a small dent on the nearside front wing, some minor damage and paint wear to the lower front wing, and a few small scratches along the rear offside wing.

We've provided more detailed observations through our high-resolution images and videos. Please take the time to look through all the media files for a detailed view of what’s on offer and to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

Paint

Finished in Azurite Blue, the paint is applied with even coverage and colour across each panel.

We just noticed the occasional very small and scratch along the side of the car, you'll have to get really close to notice these.

Additionally, we observed some very minor wear on the edges of the doors, and you can see these small defects in the photos and video below, together with some swirl marks in the paint that comes with age - nothing a good detail couldn't put right.

Once again, we've captured high-resolution images and videos of the car for you to assess the condition of the bodywork for yourselves.

Glass and Trim

The glass on this 500 SL example looks good and is in line with the age. During our visit, we didn't notice any chips, cracks, or discolouration. The window seals also look good and align with the overall condition of the car.

The bumpers, door handles, and window surrounds are all in good condition as well.

You can see in the exterior photos that the convertible top is in good condition with no tears or rips.

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INTERIOR VIDEO

Interior

Inside, the cabin is trimmed in supple grey leather, offering first-class comfort and refinement for every journey.

Seats and Carpets

The grey leather Mercedes seats have held their shape very well over the years, as you would expect with cherished and careful ownership.

A similar story is told with the door cards and carpets.

For a detailed view of the cabin, please take a look at the extensive media.

Dashboard

The dashboard in this 500 SL shows no signs of any major damage or scuffs, and with no warning lights displayed.

The odometer showed a reading of ~112,680 miles during our visit.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The original steering wheel is in great condition and the black leather gear stick looks good too.

For a closer look, check out the image gallery to see the detail.

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO

Mechanics

At its heart lies the renowned M119 5.0-litre V8, delivering effortless performance and a soundtrack to match - whether cruising the motorway or sweeping along the Riviera, it provides power, comfort and confidence in equal measures.

Engine and Gearbox

The fantastic 5.0-litre engine is fitted which is mated to the hydraulic 4-speed gearbox, which in-tandem produces 322BHP at 5,500rpm.

On the day of our visit, we started the car from cold, and it performed well on the road - the engine pulled nicely, idled smoothly, and ran well.

Nick reports that the car starts from cold with no issues and drives well with its smooth automatic gearbox powering the rear wheels. Take a look at the mechanical video to see the car starting from cold, driving around, and for a closer look underneath the 500 SL and the engine bay.

Suspension and Brakes

The front suspension in this 500 SL has independent damper struts whereas the rear suspension has independent 5-arm multilink.

The suspension appears to be in good condition, providing a smooth journey on the sweeping coastal roads.

During our short drive in the car, it felt just as you'd expect for a sports car from this era, coming to a stop without a fuss too.

The Drive

The 500 SL never fails to produce a luxury driving experience - a very smooth ride with the pure power of a 5.0L V8 at your fingertips – everything you need to enjoy any road trip.

Electrics and Other

We didn’t test all the electrics during our visit, but Nick reports that, to his knowledge, everything is functional and operational, aligning with the overall condition of the car.

The car has an aftermarket Kenwood radio unit fitted. Nick told us the battery tends to lose charge when left for a couple of weeks so he leaves it on a trickle charger. Perhaps the new owner would benefit from replacing the battery.

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History and Paperwork

The R129 has rightly earned its place among the greats, and this example, finished in a sought-after colour and powered by the muscular V8, stands out as an solid choice in today’s market.

The car is coming out of a ~3 year ownership with Nick - it has bags of originality and with the 5.0L V8 it has that little bit more oomph to it than the earlier cars.

The car comes with a colour matched hard top roof, 16" wheels, and with a full size spare. Take a look at this history and paperwork media to see the previous MOT reports, servicing and parts this 500 SL has received over its life.

The 500 SL comes with a current MOT valid until 08.04.2026.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a HPi check on the vehicle.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, and as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment on the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bid/s, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Service History

Date	Type	Mileage
09.04.2025	MOT	112,615
11.04.2023	MOT	112,550
11.05.2021	MOT	112,522
04.11.2019	MOT	112,510
11.10.2018	MOT	112,463
05.10.2017	MOT	112,405
03.10.2016	MOT	112,388
08.10.2015	MOT	112,332
08.10.2015	Service	112,332
13.10.2014	MOT	112,320
17.10.2013	MOT	112,174
10.10.2012	MOT	111,970
04.10.2011	MOT	111,789
30.09.2010	MOT	111,522
30.09.2009	MOT	111,191
01.10.2009	Service	111,191
22.10.2008	MOT	110,378
28.11.2007	Service (MD)	107,419
23.10.2007	MOT	106,498
01.12.2006	Service (MD)	99,955
25.10.2006	MOT	9,846 (incorrect reading)
27.10.2005	MOT	89,057
08.07.2005	Service (MD)	86,778
13.10.2004	Service (MD)	78,524
20.08.2003	Service	68,290
22.05.2002	Service	55,735
28.03.2001	Service	38,573
01.08.2000	Service	35,214
21.11.1997	Service (MD)	27,657
06.01.1997	Service (MD)	18,096
03.07.1996	Service (MD)	9,864

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Key Details

Model500 SL
TransmissionAutomatic
Reg. Date03.11.1995
CC4973CC
Mileage~112,680 on clock
HistoryPresent
ColourAzurite Blue
Interior ColourGrey
Interior TrimLeather
Chassis #WDB1290672F128480
Engine #11998222000795
MOTYes. Exp - 08.04.2026
MOT ExemptNo
Road Tax ExemptNo
HPi ClearYes - All Clear
Former Keepers8
Tyre BrandKumho
Tyre Age2008
Security SysYes
LHD or RHDRHD
VisitedYes
Sale TypePrivate
Owned~3 Years
Key FeatureSpecification
Vehicle RegistrationN223 OGJ
Driver’s SideRight
Fuel TypePetrol
Body TypeConvertible
Auction ID3139

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All Images

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Vehicle Location

Portishead, Bristol

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Auction Closed

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This car didn't meet its reserve price and may soon be available as a private sale - please contact us for more information or let us know if you want to be notified when a similar car comes to market.

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Seller : Adam Purrier - Trade Classics

Post a comment or ask the owner a question about the car.

5 Comments

lahos72

11 months ago

Hi does it have a hard top?

mpc

11 months ago

Hi,
I see the car has only done a few hundred miles in the last 10 years, Is the oil, fuel and the rest of the liquids ten or more years old? Are the tires still round, no flat spots from standing still?
Regards

DNick

mpc

11 months ago

Thanks for your enquiry about the fluids and the tires.
I have kept the fuel level relatively low and topped it up as necessary. Earlier this year I had a fuel pipe replaced so I had to refill after that. I also recently had a replacement gearbox control plate ( I believe that’s what it’s called) so the gearbox fluid was replaced then. The tires appear to be in good condition and I’m not aware of any flat spots but I don’t know when they were last replaced . However I have run the engine and moved the car every few weeks since I have owned it.
I can’t find any documentation that states when the oil was last changed but it has been to the same garage for an MOT and check over every year. I am happy to ask them if you wish.
I hope this answers your queries but if you have any further questions please
let me know.
Nick

lahos72

11 months ago

Hi, could I view the Mercedes please, what part of the country are you in thankyou.

DNick

lahos72

11 months ago

Hi, thanks for your enquiry. Please send an email to [email protected] as they handle all viewing requests.

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Vehicle Location

Portishead, Bristol

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