Is the Mercedes Benz R129 SL a future classic?

Is the R129 SL a good investment?

Could you call the R129 SL a future classic? In short - yes. In fact, the R129 is a current classic. It was a classic the day it was born in 1989!

I'm noticing that the SL is beginning to get attention from investors, rather than just enthusiasts. Bruno Sacco's range of two door R129 SL roadsters (wiki), in production 1989-2001, are known for their fantastic build quality, timeless design and sophisticated craftsmanship.

Future Outlook

The R129 is seen today as a highly desirable modern practical classic car. It commands a higher average price than its successor, the R230 SL, not least due to its mechanical simplicity. There is no time in history where the value of the R129 has declined. Doubly, the car is experiencing a surge in popularity and market value, making it a fantastic choice for investors. Our sources estimate, over the last five years, a 25-30% increase in the value of mid-spec examples. Low mileage cars have seen a 75-100% increase.

History dictates that decent examples of this model will continue to appreciate, with the very best rising to many times their initial value. The V12 model can still fetch £30k or more at auction. Facelifted models are generally more sought after, which come with a number of higher quality fixtures, fittings and parts.

".. the [R129] SL is handsome and has plenty of smooth power from its V6, V8 or even V12 engine. Best of all, it’s half the price of its SL R107 predecessor yet much easier to live with. Rare AMG models and special editions will increase in value more than standard cars.’" - Jeremy Clarkson

R129 Model Investment Comparison Chart

Here is a summary of the good and bad habits of each R129 model, from the perspective of an investor:

R129 SL Model The Good The Bad
300 SL - Entry level price.

-

- Agricultural performance (?)

-

300 SL-24 Valve - Pure classic (?)

-

- KE-jetronic fuel system is tricky to diagnose

-

280 & 320 V6 - Gutsy, pretty much bombproof engines.

- Easy to diagnose issues and parts aplenty.

- Interior build quality lacking.

- Mercedes no longer supplying coded key fobs, and matching corresponding ECU.

- The later central locking pumps are no longer available..

500 SL

- Big grunt (?)

- KE-jetronic fuel system is tricky to

diagnose

SL 500

 		- Superb M119 engine. - It can bite you in the wet (?)
600 SL & SL 600

 		- Top of the range. (?) - Pre ’96 running issues complex to diagnose
SL55 AMG / SL60 AMG / SL70 AMG / SL72 / SL73 - Rare and desirable. - Nobody knows their value! (?)


Closing Thoughts

The SL 500, years 1997-1999, is by far the best build quality of the R129’s. The Motronic engine is easy to diagnose, and the build is pretty bomb proof. This is the best R129 to buy in my opinion.

Thanks and good luck! Carl

See also:

mercedes-r129-soft-top-issues-fixing-guide.png   r129-sl-common-problems-tips-and-tricks.png

27th Jan 2020 Carl Burgess

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