SL-Class 25 years ago: Mercedes launches the R129 SL

[trader1]

Beautiful R129 @trader1! agree with everyone else - keep it as stock as possible unless you find OEM parts.

I love my R230 SL500, but it took quite an investment on service, suspension, and plastic interior trim replacements to future-proof it. Once in a while I regret not getting a late model-year R129 with SL1 + SL2 package. Finding one with the Pano roof also is like finding a unicorn now.

R129s are a bank vault on wheels from a build quality standpoint if cared for and they are appreciating when in good condition.

Thank you. Sacco’s finest work imo. I know a guy in nnj selling a 2001 sl600 silver w sport pack 30k mi. Pm if interested.

 

[trader1]

My take on restoring older cars is the OEM+ route. Stick to original parts, and update vital components using OE parts as much as possible, and when not, just try to hide them.

I don't know how good or not the stock halogens are, but even if you manage to find a set of original 30 years old Xenon headlights, plus the retrofit kit required to fit them, you have a high change that the reflectors will be corroded. Haters gonna hate, but reflectors won't reflect. I'd search for an aftermarket reflector kit that fits inside the original headlight.

If you need any help locating stuff from Europe, don't hesitate to ask!

Thank you! Means a lot and good intel

 

[Merc1]

R129, C126, C124, W124, W126, W201 are his best works. In that order, imo.

M

 

[trader1]

R129, C126, C124, W124, W126, W201 are his best works. In that order, imo.

M

Oddly enough I second that fully. Need the 124 and coupe 126 to complete the ownership experience from that legendary list. 500E in silver and 560 sec in silver or black. The 201 facelift was a beauty. The black bumpers on my white 86 2.3 were not the greatest. Awesome workhorse though. Had the blue interior and pinstripes on the character lines

 

[Swissbob]

Beautiful R129 @trader1! agree with everyone else - keep it as stock as possible unless you find OEM parts.

I love my R230 SL500, but it took quite an investment on service, suspension, and plastic interior trim replacements to future-proof it. Once in a while I regret not getting a late model-year R129 with SL1 + SL2 package. Finding one with the Pano roof also is like finding a unicorn now.

R129s are a bank vault on wheels from a build quality standpoint if cared for and they are appreciating when in good condition.

Regarding SL500 R230, that’s mine.

Bone stock.