In essence the R129 was built in the classic Mercedes tradition: over engineered and mechanically robust, and designed for longevity, thus it feels luxurious without being flashy, powerful without being frantic, and elegant without being fragile.

This lovely example was supplied via a MB main dealer, Lancaster Hertford in June 2001 and comes with its original bill of sale totalling a substantial £64,000.

Chosen specification was the ever elegant colour combination of Tansanite Blue with mushroom hide with further extras amounting to: AMG 5 spoke alloys; panoramic roof; road pack; and a wood/leather steering wheel.

It has been beautifully cared for throughout, a profusion of main dealer service stamps verify this and apart from two stand alone services, the SL Shop has also been instrumental in its continued care. In fact, it appears from the paperwork they have handled its sale on two previous occasions, so evidently a car they deemed worthy!

Apart from a small mark over the o/s wheel arch, the car's paintwork presents beautifully, as does the wonderful interior, showing virtually no signs of wear, which again is testament to the quality materials MB used at this time, nevertheless, still remarkably impressive for a car nudging 25 years old.

The removeable panoramic hard top creates a light an dairy feel to the interior space, quickly detached and easily stowed on its own proper MB stand. Once the weather improves we will post some photos without the hardtop in place, but as you would expect its elegant dark blue soft top is unmarked.

Ergonomically, the interior is entirely logical and driver-focused. Controls are placed where they make sense, with no unnecessary complexity. The thick steering wheel and substantial door handles reinforce the car’s solid character, even the doors close with a resounding thud.

There's plenty of bhp from the 5.0 litre V8 on tap, 300+, which propels the car long quickly without ever seeming to work hard. Pairing with the 5-speed automatic transmission enhances that character and shifts in this car are smooth, well-timed, and unobtrusive.

Thus it comes with spare keys, original handbook, certificate of conformity, two ring binders of invoices, MOT certificates and the original service book containing mainly main dealer service stamps. Services are stamped at 10306, 16584, 25046, 28484, 30268, 31491, 32005, 32520, 42665 with the most recent invoice being at 43,457 miles in 2025.

We are rather particular, so not many R129's have passed through our doors over the years, but given it comes from the same home as both the superb 911's we have currently for sale, and knowing as we do the previous keepers obsessiveness, this car certainly doesn't disappoint on any level.

We would be delighted to arrange a viewing of this exceptional Mercedes Benz at our Rudgwick, West Sussex showroom or to discuss it in further detail, please contact Julien Sumner on 07788 856700.

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