Mercedes-Benz has a long and storied history of crafting exceptional two-seat sporty convertibles, dating back to 1954 with the iconic SL-Class designation, short for “Sport Leicht” or “Sport Lightweight.” These vehicles have consistently represented a blend of sporty grand touring capabilities with unparalleled comfort and quality. The R129 generation of the Mercedes-Benz SL, including the sought-after 1999 Mercedes Benz Sl500, perfectly embodies this tradition.
The R129 series was introduced in 1990 as a replacement for the long-serving R107, which had been the SL-Class standard since 1972. The new R129 was a significant leap forward, featuring a cutting-edge adjustable sport-luxury suspension and a completely redesigned chassis. Its engineering included twin A-arm front suspension, a fully independent multi-link rear suspension, four-wheel disc brakes, and a robust unibody construction. Safety was also a priority, with an innovative automatic roll bar system designed to deploy instantly in a rollover situation. Each SL-Class in this era came equipped with both a fabric convertible top and a detachable aluminum hardtop, offering versatility and year-round usability.
Initially, to launch the R129, Mercedes revived the legendary 300SL nameplate. This model featured a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, available in single overhead cam (SOHC) configuration producing 190 horsepower, or a double overhead cam (DOHC) version delivering 228 horsepower. The 300SL offered a choice between a five-speed manual or an optional five-speed automatic transmission.
For those seeking more power, the 500SL was also available from the start, boasting a 5.0-liter overhead cam V-8 engine producing a robust 322 horsepower, paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. These initial engine options largely remained consistent until 1993 when Mercedes expanded the range with the introduction of the 600SL. This top-tier model featured a formidable 6.0-liter 48-valve double overhead cam V-12 engine, generating 389 horsepower and also utilizing a four-speed automatic transmission.
A significant nomenclature change occurred in 1994, with Mercedes shifting to place the class designation before the engine displacement in model names. Consequently, the 500SL became the SL500, retaining the same horsepower output. The 300SL was discontinued and replaced by the SL320, powered by a 3.2-liter double overhead cam inline six-cylinder engine producing 220 horsepower. The flagship SL600 with the V-12 engine remained at the top of the lineup. In 1996, both the SL500 and SL600 received an upgrade to a more advanced five-speed electronic automatic transmission, enhancing their performance and driving experience.
These model designations continued through 1998, after which the SL320 was no longer offered. The SL500 and SL600 models persisted until the end of the R129 chassis production run in the 2002 model year. Interestingly, the SL500’s horsepower was slightly reduced to 302 hp from 1998 through 2002, while the SL600 V-12 engine remained unchanged throughout this period. Therefore, the 1999 Mercedes Benz SL500 sits within this slightly later production phase of the R129, offering a refined driving experience with a touch less horsepower compared to the earlier 500SL.
The R129 Mercedes SL-Class, and specifically models like the 1999 Mercedes Benz SL500, are celebrated as some of the best-engineered vehicles of their era, providing enjoyable and memorable driving experiences. While the V-8 and V-12 models undeniably offer superior power and performance, driving purists might appreciate the manual transmissions available in the earlier six-cylinder models. The 300SL represents a value-oriented entry point to the R129 range, while the SL320 delivers enhanced responsiveness.
Starting in 1995, Mercedes-Benz introduced the Mille Miglia special edition to commemorate the 40th anniversary of their historic victory at the Mille Miglia race. This racing-inspired edition was also offered for the 1999-2001 model years. Additionally, a 40th Anniversary Roadster Edition was available in 1997, and a Silver Arrow special edition was offered in 2002, marking the end of the R129 generation. For those seeking a unique and collectible 1999 Mercedes Benz SL500, exploring the Mille Miglia edition could be particularly rewarding, adding a touch of motorsport heritage to an already exceptional roadster. The 1999 Mercedes Benz SL500, in any trim, stands as a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to luxury, performance, and enduring quality in the sports convertible segment.
