MERCEDES-BENZ SL R129: FROM THE 300SL TO THE SL73 AMG (1989-2001)Revised 2025 EditionComplete Model History, Engineering, AMG Variants and a Detailed 30+ Page Buyer's GuideA well-maintained Mercedes-Benz R129 can be one of the most rewarding modern classics to own. A neglected example, however, can quickly require repairs costing many thousands of dollars. This book combines the complete history and technical development of the R129 with practical guidance on the mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, body and structural areas that should be examined before purchase.
Introduced in 1989 as the successor to the R107, the R129 set new standards in safety, comfort and technical sophistication. Its automatically extending roll bar, electrohydraulic soft top, advanced suspension systems and wide range of inline-six, V6, V8 and V12 engines made it one of the most sophisticated roadsters of its era. This 223-page, full-color reference covers:. the complete model history from the early 300SL, 300SL-24 and 500SL through the 600SL to the later SL280, SL320, SL500 and SL600, including the major updates of 1995 and 1998.
inline-six, V6, V8 and V12 engines, manual and automatic transmissions, suspension, ADS, safety systems, electronics and important technical developments. rare AMG models including SL60 AMG, SL55 AMG and SL73 AMG, plus conversions by Brabus, Carlsson, Koenig Specials and RENNtech. the Karmann Gullwing prototype and Karl Middelhauve's extraordinary Grand 600SL. special editions including Mille Miglia, La Costa and Silver Arrow.
a detailed 30+ page buyer's guide covering bodywork, engines, transmissions, suspension, ADS, wiring harnesses, electrical systems, climate control, central locking, roof hydraulics, soft top, hardtop, interior, originality and documentation. production figures, chassis numbers, data cards, paint colors, upholstery combinations, factory equipment and important model-year changesUnlike a conventional buyer's guide, this book also presents the complete history and technical development of the R129, making it a comprehensive reference for prospective buyers, owners and Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts.
Bernd S. Koehling has been involved with classic Mercedes-Benz automobiles since the 1970s and is the author of more than 20 books on the marque.
MERCEDES-BENZ SL R129: FROM THE 300SL TO THE SL73 AMG (1989-2001)Revised 2025 EditionComplete Model History, Engineering, AMG Variants and a Detailed 30+ Page Buyer's GuideA well-maintained Mercedes-Benz R129 can be one of the most rewarding modern classics to own. A neglected example, however, can quickly require repairs costing many thousands of dollars. This book combines the complete history and technical development of the R129 with practical guidance on the mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, body and structural areas that should be examined before purchase.
Introduced in 1989 as the successor to the R107, the R129 set new standards in safety, comfort and technical sophistication. Its automatically extending roll bar, electrohydraulic soft top, advanced suspension systems and wide range of inline-six, V6, V8 and V12 engines made it one of the most sophisticated roadsters of its era. This 223-page, full-color reference covers:. the complete model history from the early 300SL, 300SL-24 and 500SL through the 600SL to the later SL280, SL320, SL500 and SL600, including the major updates of 1995 and 1998.
inline-six, V6, V8 and V12 engines, manual and automatic transmissions, suspension, ADS, safety systems, electronics and important technical developments. rare AMG models including SL60 AMG, SL55 AMG and SL73 AMG, plus conversions by Brabus, Carlsson, Koenig Specials and RENNtech. the Karmann Gullwing prototype and Karl Middelhauve's extraordinary Grand 600SL. special editions including Mille Miglia, La Costa and Silver Arrow.
a detailed 30+ page buyer's guide covering bodywork, engines, transmissions, suspension, ADS, wiring harnesses, electrical systems, climate control, central locking, roof hydraulics, soft top, hardtop, interior, originality and documentation. production figures, chassis numbers, data cards, paint colors, upholstery combinations, factory equipment and important model-year changesUnlike a conventional buyer's guide, this book also presents the complete history and technical development of the R129, making it a comprehensive reference for prospective buyers, owners and Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts.
Bernd S. Koehling has been involved with classic Mercedes-Benz automobiles since the 1970s and is the author of more than 20 books on the marque.
