Description
The Mercedes-Benz R129 automobiles were produced from 1989 through to 2002 and were sold under the SL-Class model names. The R129 replaced the R107 SL-Class in 1989 and was in its turn replaced by the R230 in 2003 (US). The R129 was produced as a two-door roadster with an automated (electro-hydraulic) textile tonneau cover. All R129s came standard with an additional hardtop roof that could be fitted as and when desired by having the canvas roof folded down and then by manually attaching the hardtop to the body.
Designed in 1984, the R129 was based on the shortened floorpan of the Mercedes-Benz W12 and featured many innovative details for the time; these included electronically controlled damping (optional) and a hidden, automatically extending roll-over bar. There were also a high number of standard features, with electric action for the windows, mirrors, seats and convertible top.
The R129 SL-class roadster was (with the exception of the 2.8 model) a fairly powerful car from the factory. The 500SL delivered 300bhp, and the V12-powered 600SL offered 389bhp.
This extremely rare example of the SL600 was converted by the respected German tuning company Lorinser into the incredible 7.2 litre beast you see here. Our vendor has owned the Lorinser since 2003, purchasing it from the previous French owner. During his ownership the car has been maintained by Mercedes in London and stored on display in their showroom. The Mercedes was very well specified from new, featuring many additional factory options such as timing clocks for track use.
Now showing a mere 39,000 kilometres recorded and offered with Mercedes service history since 2003, French title papers, and finished in metallic black with a cream leather interior, this is a beautiful example of what has become a very desirable modern supercar.
