"Following the resounding success of the R107, the R129 Mercedes-Benz SL had a rather tough act to follow, as it still had to carry on the tradition of a fast and reliable grand touring convertible. The advantage designers had with the R129 was technology. By the time the final car rolled off the production line in 1989, these earlier models had been in production for 18 years with very little change. Therefore, the SL500 featured many new and innovative ideas, such as controlled electronic damping, automatically expanding roll-over bar and a more modern multi-link rear axle. In addition to this was a fully operating electric roof, windows, door mirrors and seats, which made this model easy and comfortable to operate. The new SL also boasted a more powerful engine and the stopping power was aided by anti-lock braking for added reassurance.
This 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 SL 32 valve was supplied new to HRH King Abdullah of Jordan when he was the Crown Prince and kept at his London home. Purchased by the current owner in 2008 and having covered just over 62,000 miles, the car came with a good Mercedes-Benz service history. In his ownership, our vendor has only covered a further 8,000 miles and kept the car well maintained. Finished in dark blue with matching hardtop and tan interior, this 500 SL is supplied with AGM alloy wheels, air conditioning, a V5 registration document, an MoT test certificate which expires in October 2023, the service book which is stamped up to 2007 at 62,005 miles and various invoices. These incredibly accomplished, five litre sportscars represent a truly advanced way to travel."