Mercedes-Benz SL: Future Classic?

amanico · 2019-07-01T04:48:17Z

Explore Mercedes-Benz SL models from the late 80s to early 2000s. Discover which R129 and R230 generations are future classics, considering maintenance, engines, and collector appeal.

amanico

WPS member · Automotive forum

86 replies33052 views1 photos

Nicolas (amanico) initiates a compelling discussion on the future classic status of Mercedes-Benz SL models from the late 1980s to the early 2000s. His post highlights the aesthetic appeal and driving pleasure of these generations, positioning them as excellent value propositions. This article synthesizes community insights on which SL models hold the most promise for collectibility and ownership satisfaction.

Ok, let's put the stars of the category such as the SL 300 Gull Wings, the SL 190, and the SL Pagoda, to focus on what I think to become a future classic, the SL models from the late 80's to nowadays.

The current SL is very nice looking, but too recent to be a bargain.

The current one:

Here are the bargains:

A SL from 1993:

Another from 1998 ( SL 70 AMG ), credit picture: Sothebys.

And the generation which came just after:

In fact I am hesitating between a model from the 90's and the one from the early 2000's.

The character is incredible, the engines are very good, with a 8 Cylinder ( 500 ) or 6 Cylinder ( 300 / 320 for the versions from the 80's / 90's, 350 for the version from the early 2000's ).

And the pleasure / price ratio is excellent.

Without forgetting that I am seriously thinking they are becoming pure classics.

What do you think?

Best,

Nicolas

Key Points from the Discussion

The R230 chassis SL models, particularly those with Active Body Control (ABC) suspension, are known for extremely high maintenance costs due to complex hydraulic systems prone to major failures.
For a simpler ownership experience, the R129 model from 2001 is recommended over the R230, though its electric soft-top should be thoroughly inspected. Rare R129 AMG versions (7.0 and 7.3 liters) are highly special collectibles.
Only limited-production AMG models from this era are likely to appreciate as investments; most other SLs are better viewed as enjoyable transportation rather than garage queens.
The R230's folding hardtop offers practical benefits for year-round driving, making it a strong contender for those seeking versatility.
The M113K (supercharged M113) engine found in models like the SL55 AMG is highly reliable and considered a 'darling engine' among Mercedes enthusiasts, making late-year SL55 AMGs potential future collectibles.
A late-year R129 SL500 (2000-2002) with metal coil suspension (avoiding air suspension) and the M113 engine is a reliable choice, though it lacks modern amenities like Bluetooth.

The Discussion

@lberti

Jul 1, 2019

I think the SL70, yes. The others not so sure. Did u know there is also a sl73 amg?

@lberti

Jul 1, 2019

... built in collaboration with Porsche ! Widebody, in Black! What a beast.

@lberti

Jul 1, 2019

I was told there were 25 cars made... A real monster...

VinnieD

Jul 1, 2019

For me, a very early 500SL from 1989-1990 in silver with the tartan interior. An alternative would be a very late 600SL with the full bells and whistles, including the glass roof, in all black. It looks like the value of the clean examples is raising slowly.

ZSHSZ

Jul 1, 2019

Out of the models in question , .I’ll go for the 2000’s edition.

VinnieD

Jul 1, 2019

Jacky had one of the very first ones in Belgium in 1989 (500sl black) and he drove it to drop his daughter at my school when I was 11 years old. It made quite an impression on me.

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