where are all the SL500s ??

[kkmfo]

I have been searching the MBUK website for used SLs (129 model). Strangely there are plenty of SL320s being offered, but no SL500s.
Anybody know why?
Is this a deliberate ploy by MBUK so that buyers have to look at the new model instead ?
I currently have a 1997SL320 and am considering buying an SL500 in maybe 1 yrs time. Will there be any for sale from authorised dealers by then ?

 

[ant500sl]

Nick

Having had a quick glance MBUK's used car list they have 5 listed. In a years time I would imagine that most dealers will have trouble recognising what one is as they have diffficulty in understanding anything over 5 years old. Having owned a 2000 model for two years (my first new car) I have gone back to the older models as they don't fall apart quite so often and I can get excellent service from the independent garages. My advice is to find an older model (or two) and blow the rest on the house, a holiday and something sparkly for the wife. Perhaps some more cars even. However, should you have a main dealer that is competent please let us know and we will all bow down in awe and pay a visit for our next oil change.

Just a thought

Ant

 

[kkmfo]

500sls

5 listed ! 18 months ago there were about 50 listed.
I still think this is some kind of conspiracy !!
In terms of older cars being better quality, I can only go by the general body of opinion being in your favour, having not had any other mercs than my current one.
I bought the car from Greenoaks (previously Rivervale) in Reading and have had great service from them, though they need kicking up the backside in order to provide it.
Re my next car, I thought I would be safe enough buying an 2000 or 2001 129 model, given that it is still the old shape - am I mistaken ?
I reckon these cars are the best value on the road for £30K, given that new ones were £60K plus a couple of yrs ago.

thanks for the reply.

 

[ant500sl]

Apologies! Must confess to getting carried away from time to time when it comes to dealer and new car bashing. 14 visits to get faults sorted in two years on a £60k car from new did leave a bitter taste in the mouth, as did the A140 courtesy car.
Given that all these niggling faults would have been ironed out on a 2000/2001 model you will probably get yourself the worlds best roadster for the same money as a lot of people spend on lesser convertibles.
As for the number of cars available they will be mostly part exchanges on new models sold by the dealer, beyond a certain age or if not in pristine condition they will be sent to an auction or a specialist dealer. The winter is a pretty lean time for convertible sales so dealers try not to hold too many. On the other hand you should be able to strike a very good deal as I once heard that winter can knock 15 to 20 % off the value of a convertible. Ebay is full of SL's at the moment with hardly any bids or sales.

Now I've written this just its ocurred that a nice late model SL60 would be quite fun :wink: