Mercedes-Benz SL 2000 - 600 2dr Auto

This lot will be auctioned via Iconic Auctioneers, The Iconic Sale at the NEC Classic Motor Show 2025 on Saturday the 8th of November, NEC, Birmingham, B40 1NT. , At launch, the R129 SL was offered with a range of engines from six-cylinder through to V8, but the flagship of the line was the SL600 powered by Mercedes-Benz’ 6-litre V12. Developing 389bhp and 420lb/ft of torque, it delivered turbine-smooth performance combined with long-distance refinement, making it one of the most capable and versatile grand tourers of its era. With the V12 SL600 offered at around a third more than its V8-powered equivalent 600s when new, these were picked up by discerning buyers willing to spend a large amount extra for added performance and engine refinement.The R129 retained the bank-vault build quality of its predecessors but introduced contemporary design and advanced safety features, including a fully automatic roll-over bar, multi-link rear suspension, and dual-mode adaptive dampers. With the optional panoramic hardtop in place, it offered coupé-like usability, while the hydraulically folding soft top provided open-air motoring at the press of a button.This 2000 example is finished in Tanzanite Blue with a matching panoramic hardtop over a Java leather interior and is fitted with 18" split-rim AMG alloys wheels, wearing matching Continental Conti Sport Contact 3 tyres added in 2024. The interior remains a particular strength, with the well preserved Java leather upholstery showing light wear and creasing, complemented by extensive wood trim. More than £2,000 has been spent on replacement items including a new dashboard shell and wood/leather steering wheel, enhancing the overall presentation. The Blaupunkt Bremen head unit, fitted in 2023 at a cost of over £900, provides period correct audio with modern functionality. Some trim imperfections are noted including minor lifting to both door cards and light cracks to the veneer on the transmission tunnel.Recent expenditure includes more than £8,000 with the renowned Mercedes-Benz specialist, The SL Shop, in May of this year which includes front brake pads and discs, a gearbox service as well as a new mohair convertible soft top. Additional recent spending includes £4,000 with independent Mercedes-Benz specialists Riemans in June 2024. This work included a new fuel pump and filter, rectification of an oil leak, new lower suspension arms, anti-roll bar bushes, wheel bearings, spark plugs, brake fluid, and ancillary items. Service history is also recorded at Monarch Independent and ACMS Mercedes, with accompanying invoices on file.The history file is comprehensive, containing the book pack, invoices, expired MOTs and Tax Discs. It also contains the original Bill of Sale, perhaps indicating this SL was collected from the factory by its first owner, and confirming a purchase price of nearly 250,000 Deutsche Marks when new. The odometer currently shows around 57,000 miles, supported by the documented service history. The current MOT Certificate runs until May 2026 and since 2015, the car has consistently passed without advisories. Only for sale as our vendor's new G-Wagen arrived early and the SL is now surplus to requirements.The R129 SL600 remains one of the most accomplished and usable modern classic Mercedes models, offering discreet styling, versatile usability, and the refinement of a V12 powerplant. At the guide price of £25,000–£30,000 with significant recent expenditure, this example represents excellent value for a well maintained flagship of the range.