MERCEDES-BENZ, The SL R129: From the 300SL to the SL73 AMG

MERCEDES-BENZ SL R129: FROM THE 300SL TO THE SL73 AMG (1989–2001) Revised 2025 Edition Complete Model History, Engineering, AMG Variants and a Detailed 30+ Page Buyer’s Guide A 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 a detailed buyer’s guide covering the mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, body and structural areas that should be examined before purchase. Introduced in 1989 as the successor to the long-lived R107, the R129 established 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 large-format, 223-page, full-color reference presents the complete R129 story, from the early 300SL, 300SL-24 and 500SL through the 600SL and later SL280, SL320, SL500 and SL600 to the rare AMG models. It covers model development, engines, transmissions, technical changes, special editions, specialist conversions, production data, originality and a detailed buyer’s guide extending over more than 30 pages. The book covers: • COMPLETE MODEL HISTORY From the 300SL, 300SL-24 and 500SL through the 600SL to the later SL280, SL320, SL500 and SL600, including the important model updates of 1995 and 1998. • ENGINES AND ENGINEERING Inline-six, V6, V8 and V12 engines, manual and automatic transmissions, suspension systems, ADS, safety technology, electronics and the principal technical developments introduced during production from 1989 to 2001. • AMG, TUNERS AND RARE VARIANTS SL60 AMG, SL55 AMG and SL73 AMG, together with conversions by Brabus, Carlsson, Koenig Specials and RENNtech. Also included are the Karmann-built Gullwing prototype and Karl Middelhauve’s extraordinary Grand 600SL. • SPECIAL EDITIONS AND ORIGINALITY Mille Miglia, La Costa and Silver Arrow editions, together with production figures, chassis numbers, data cards, paint colors, upholstery combinations, factory equipment and important model-year changes. • DETAILED 30+ PAGE BUYER’S GUIDE Bodywork and previous repairs, engines, transmissions, suspension, ADS, wiring harnesses, electrical systems, climate control, central locking, roof hydraulics, soft-top operation, hardtop, interior equipment, originality and documentation. The guide explains where age or neglected maintenance can lead to substantial repair costs. Unlike a conventional buyer’s guide, this book also presents the complete history and technical development of the R129. Unlike a general model history, it provides practical guidance for inspecting, purchasing and owning these increasingly collectible roadsters. The hardcover and paperback editions contain the same complete 223-page, full-color content; the only difference is the binding. Whether you are considering the purchase of an R129, already own one, or simply appreciate this generation of the SL, this carefully researched and richly illustrated book offers a comprehensive guide to its history, engineering and many variations. 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. Additional photographs and sample pages from the book appear farther down this product page.