Description
In 1989, Mercedes-Benz retired its classic 107 series bodyshell that had been used for a succession of beautiful sports roadsters for almost the preceding 20 years, replacing it with an equally appealing, sleek new design in the modern idiom. This new Type 129 body style was used – initially – for three different engine types: 6.0-litre V12, 5.0-litre V8 and a 3.0-litre straight six that was available in 12- and 24-valve versions in the 300SL. In 1992 the 300SL was, in effect, replaced by two new 24-valve models – the SL 280 and SL 320.
As one might expect, these new SL luxury sports cars were designed to be world leaders in their class and lavishly equipped in the best Mercedes-Benz tradition. The Nappa leather-upholstered interior featured heated front seats, leather-covered steering wheel/gearshift and walnut or chestnut wood trim, while incorporating the very latest in automotive technology. As well as being electrically adjustable, the front seats, mirrors and steering column also ‘remembered’ settings, allowing several customised driving positions, interchangeable at the push of a button. Far too extensive to list there, the SL’s generous equipment list included anti-lock brakes, power-assisted steering, acceleration skid control (ASR), electronic stability programme (ESP), driver/passenger air bags, automatic climate control, five-speed electronic automatic transmission, cruise control and Mercedes-Benz Security System (MBSS).
The SL 320 offered today has had 2 owners from new and is in very good condition. This car is registered in Monaco and comes with its original hard-top. One of the best open top sports tourers of the 1990s.
