Mercedes-Benz SL500 Parts

When considering the Mercedes-Benz SL500, it is important to remember that luxury always comes with performance. The R129 model (1989-2001) is a great example of German engineering at its best. As the successor to SL-Class cars, this convertible combines sports car speed with comfort for long-distance driving. What powered it was a mighty 5.0 liter V8 engine which originally had 322 hp under the M119 designation and since 1998 dropped that to 302 hp using the M113 modification. It was initially hooked up to a four-speed electronic gearbox before being replaced the next year by a five-year system. The SL500's beautiful line included two-seater bodies available only in the form of a soft-top cabriolet with an electro-hydraulic fabric roof as well as a detachable hardtop and side airbags among other safety features introduced post-1995 together with an auto-extending roll-over bar. To improve the ride quality and dynamic performance, a new multi-link rear axle was added to the suspension while an Adaptive Damping System became optional too. There have been various facelifts during production including special editions like Mille Miglia or Silver Arrow, but also reliable things added along with such changes as Bose stereo systems or electronic odometers among others. Therefore many classic enthusiasts still find the Mercedes-Benz SL500 attractive due to the mix of novelty, richness, and driveability throughout the roadster's lifespan.