SL500 R129 running costs

[paulco]

I am considering changing my TVR Chimaera for an SL500 c. 96/97 and am trying to get a feel for how the running costs will compare. The insurance is certainly cheaper.

Can any owners advise me on what they pay a year on average for servicing/repairs? Can you recommend a decent non-franchise specialist in the south London area?

Finally, I can fit my bicycle in the boot of the TVR but the SL's boot is much smaller so I will have to find a rack of some sort. I've tried a Mercedes dealer but they have stopped stocking boot/roof racks for the R129. Any ideas?

Thanks

 

[peterchurch]

Hi,
This might give you an Idea

http://forums.mercedesclub.org.uk/viewtopic.php?t=8237&highlight=

I bought mine this year and went for a 320 on the basis that I wanted to keep my licence but Im already pining for an AMG So the 500 is not such a bad idea. Although I have heard people say that the engine is too heavy and upsets the balance of the car ...

good luck they are great cars to drive

Peter

 

[kkmfo]

SL running costs

can't comment on the 500, but I had a 97 sl320 until June of this yr. I had it for 2 1/2 yrs and had it serviced at a main dealer. Usually got a bill for about £200. Had new brake pads - wasn't exhorbitant. No other costs really.
Changed it for an SL60 AMG (1996)in June and am now using a non-franchised specialist to service it.

Expensive bits are the electronics - power hood, climate control etc etc. Mechanicals are not too bad, and pretty reliable.

Touch wood I've had no problems with the amg - other than petrol costs, but I knew what I was letting myself in for and don't do big mileage.
It is an awesome car.

You always run the risk of getting stuck with a big repair job on a 7/8 yr old car. But my advice would be spend around £17.5K for a really clean example with full sh and tidy interior, and check all the electrics work.

You have the option of getting an RAC warranty or similar for about £600 a year.
You won't find many around for sale at this time of year, but may get some bargains. Prices for SLs are heavily depressed in the winter.

You won't regret getting an SL500. I can't think of any other car that provides that level of luxury and performance for the money.

PS Peter I'll let you know if I ever think of selling!

There is tons of advice from owners on here and on mbclub.co.uk and mbworld.org. Check out the 129 forum on there and look at posts by bluesl - he knows the cars inside out and has had good and bad experience.....he's got a 96SL600 that he's owned from new. Cost him very little until about 6 months ago then the gearbox blew up and cost £2k to rebuild. You pays your money and takes your chance.