1993 Mercedes-Benz 500 SL

The original 1954 Mercedes-Benz SL (Sports Leicht) was crowned sports car of the century so with lineage this iconic, the 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL500 had big shoes to fill.

Code-named R129, the fourth-generation Mercedes SL-Class roadster is one of today's most undervalued modern classics.

Unlike earlier SL models, the R129 2-seater cleverly couples modern tech and performance with a bygone era of uncompromised Mercedes-Benz build quality.

Every R129 came standard with both a flush-fitting hardtop and the first fully automated convertible soft–top in the industry, as well as automatic climate control and concert-quality surround sound.

Also standard, of course, was a direct stake in that noble SL lineage stretching back to the original 300SL Gullwing. Featuring a 32-valve M119 5.0-liter V8, which pumped out a plentiful 322 horsepower the R129 generation SL’s had a sterling reputation for durability and a huge amount of usable, low-end torque.

Delivered new by Mercedes-Benz, Sydney in April of 1993 this exceptionally well kept R129 SL500 was ordered in the desirable Zircon Silver metallic over the correct matte finish bumpers and a Grey perforated leather interior, travelled just 73,600 kilometres.

Featuring a complete and zero expense spared service history all tell-tale signs show how well this SL has been kept from the original and pristine interior switchgear and radio, walnut trim and as new leather seats to the mint condition engine bay, unblemished original alloys and brilliant paintwork.

A short drive highlights why these cars were so well-received. The steering feels well balanced and smooth, acceleration delivers ample torque around town and for a grand tourer the chassis is still incredibly nimble.

Accompanying the car are the original manuals detailing the comprehensive service history and original sale receipt bound within the leather Mercedes-Benz embossed wallet, the Becker Mexico radio card, colour coded hard-top in pristine condition, black soft-top and both original keyless entry keys.

The perfect modern classic for the daily commute and/or weekend drives out of the city with the top down surrounded by luxury, this well maintained and low kilometre SL500 does it all and won’t simultaneously break the bank.

Cars like this continue to become harder to find and this is one of the finest we’ve ever seen. Still somehow underappreciated and undervalued but not for much longer this SL500 will not last long.