The fourth-gen Mercedes-Benz SL R129 has transitioned from a ’90s status symbol to a sought-after youngtimer today. Now, behold one of the most exceptional specimens—a 2000 SL 500, truly the epitome of showroom perfection, with an astonishingly low 1,664 miles (2,678 km) on the odometer.
The R129 generation had an impressive production run, spanning from 1989 to 2002. Our featured SL 500, a late-model-year example from 2000, was part of this lineage before the R230 series took over as Mercedes-Benz’s flagship roadster. This particular example rolled off the assembly line in Sindelfingen in March 2000 and found its first owner in June of the same year.
Originally registered in Howard Beach, New York, it spent the next 22 years there, clocking a mere 1,090 miles (1,754 km) during that time. In June 2022, it changed hands to its second and current owner, a private collector in Miami, who has since added just 574 miles (924 km) to its odometer, all while taking really good care of it.
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SpeedArt Motorsports
The roadster combines a Brilliant Silver Metallic exterior with Ash Nappa Leather upholstery and Burl Walnut veneers adorning the cabin. Together, they evoke a sense of ’90s nostalgia. The cool factor is accentuated by the optional SL1 and SL2 Sport Packages, which introduce a range of desirable features. These include the AMG bodykit, 18-inch monoblock alloy wheels, xenon headlights, heated seats, and a premium Bose audio system.
According to the listing on SpeedArt Motorsports, the paint is free of imperfections, while the interior is in “near-new” condition, something that is visible from the photos we’ve included. All systems are functioning like the day it rolled off the production line, including the “flawless” soft top. The new owner will also receive the original manual, service booklet, window sticker, and tool kit, enhancing its collectible appeal. Recent tire replacement means that the wheels are now wrapped in a fresh set of rubber, while all mechanical components are said to continue to perform at their best.
SpeedArt Motorsports
Under the hood, the SL 500 houses a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine, capable of delivering 302 hp (225 kW / 306 PS) and 339 lb-ft (460 Nm) of torque. Power is channeled to the rear axle via a 5-speed automatic gearbox. While the output figures might not be as impressive as the AMG-branded V12-powered examples of the R129 generation, the SL 500 is considered by many to be a more balanced (not to mention, lighter too) model within the range. According to Mercedes, the 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) sprint is completed in 6.1 seconds. In typical German fashion, the vehicle’s top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph (250 km/h).
The uniquely fresh SL 500 is listed for $78,000, which may sound like too much for a 23-year-old Mercedes, but proves the rapidly increasing desirability of this generation and the rarity of its pristine condition.
