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FOR SALE

1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 320 (R129)

£15,450

32k Miles | ~23 Years Owned | Highly Original | Investment Grade

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

£15,450

1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 320 (R129)

Premium Classified Sale

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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
Key Details
  • ModelSL 320 (R129)
  • TransmissionAutomatic
  • Reg. Date01.03.1998
  • CC3,200
  • Mileage~32,551 on clock
  • ColourObsidian Black
  • Interior ColourMushroom
  • Interior TrimLeather
  • Chassis #WDB1290632F159163
  • MOTYes Exp. 06.04.2026
  • HPi ClearYes - All Clear
  • Former Keepers2
  • # of Keys3
  • LHD or RHDRHD
  • VisitedYes
  • Sale TypePrivate
  • Owned~23 Years
  • Key FeatureInvestor Quality Car
  • Auction ID2756

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

1999 Mercedes-Benz SL 320 (R129)

Auction House Collecting Cars

Sale Date 19 Oct 21

Sold Price 22,300

1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 320 (R129)

Auction House Silverstone Auctions

Sale Date 16 Jul 22

Sold Price 17,677

Insurance Quote


Average annual insurance premium for a like this is 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 .

Vehicle Location

Rotherham

Thank You


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