1992 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

Convertible

5 Liter 32 Valve V-8

Automatic

WDBFA66E7NF039183

Clear

Gasoline

This pampered beauty was sold new in Florida and spent most of its life there. I bought it in 2006, at which time it had just over 55,000 miles. I brought to Michigan where it is driven only for the 6 summer months in fair weather only. It has never seen snow, and only rarely been rained on. For the remaining 6 months it is covered and stored in a heated building. Since I've owned it, I have invested more than $5000 in upgrades and maintenance, including replacing the hydraulic cylinders that operate the power top (a major expense!). The original cylinders have about a 15-year lifespan, after which they begn to leak. The new, improved cylinders which have been installed have teflon seals so they should last much longer than the originals did. Also within the past 500 miles the distributor caps, rotors, fuel injector seals, and other items have been replaced in keeping with mid-life maintenance recommendations. Brakes, radiator, and air conditioning components have also been replaced recently, so the car should be good for many years of trouble-free enjoyment. If you were to buy a 20 year old car like this with higher mileage or one that has not been properly maintained, you may find yourself facing a lot of expensive repair bills. I have a folder with many service records going back to when the car was new. Additionally, if this car sells, I will install a new battery just because the one currently in it is at least 6 years old. The good: Paintwork is virtually flawless- very glossy, free from scratches and chips- one minor scuff on the RF fender which is shown on the final photo. No door dings, no accidents, never smoked in. Runs like a Mercedes should, has never needed oil (3000 mile oil changes). Leather and wood work are exceptionally nice with only one small scuff on the driver's seat bolster where a bit of wear is showing from entry/egress friction. Has a slightly modified exhaust system that gives it a throaty (not loud) sound much like a 5 liter Mustang. The like-new original exhaust components go with it in case you prefer the original whisper-quiet sound. Brakes, transmission, tires and other mechanicals in proper condition except as noted below. 20 MPG combined city/hiway, 23 MPG hiway. Upgraded sound system with trunk-mounted CD changer (original Becker stereo/cassette radio included in a separate box). The convertible top is clean and in excellentg conditgion, haveing also been replaced recently. The rear windows are clear and not scratched. The bad: When I got it out of storage this Spring, as always, I check all components for proper operation and found that the A/C was not blowing cold. I took it to the local M-B dealership and it was diagnosed as a lack of R134 refrigerant. A leaky hose was found, but since I never drive the car without the top down, it was decided to not replace the hose. The ugly: One minor scuff on the RF fender. I haven't addressed this because I did not find it very objectionable and didn't want to tie up the car during the summer driving season. Also, a barely noticeable crack in the left end of the instrument cluster glass which I couldn't get to show up in a photo. This has been an excellent car that my wife and I have enjoyed immensely for several years, but as we are in our high 70's it's time to move on, especially since we only drive it about 500 miles each summer. It is fast, comfortable, and beautiful. Other 500SL's can be found, but few in this condition, with low miles and an excellent service history. In summation- you may find cars at lower prices, but be careful that you're not buying something that will end up needing a lot of expensive repairs. For example- if the hydraulic cylinders are in need of replacement, expect to pay about $4000. $500 Paypal deposit upon notification of winning bid, balance by bank-to-bank transfer or cash upon pickup. Possession and properly executed title to be given only after suitable time is allowed for funds to clear. Car is located in SW Michigan. Transport to new owners location is the sole responsibility of buyer. When I bought the car in December, 2006 the CarFax report showed no accidents. A more recent report will show there was an accident in Ormond Beach, FL in 2006, before I bought it. I contacted the previous owner and he told me the accident was minor, only taillight lens and rear bumper involved. ALSO- I have extra smart keys ($125 each!) for the car.