The R129 is IMO one of the nicest and classiest cars ever made. I would prefer an SL300 with the M103 before they switched it to the M104, just because the M103 is an excellent engine (not to say the M104 is not, or any of the other engines in it). The R129 is essentially a shortned w124 chassis, I have heard they handle similarly. It is a grand touring car, not a hardcore sports car. Common/unique problems include leaking hydraulic actuators for the convertible top - any wetness around there should be examined. Personally I would buy a R129 in a heartbeat, if I had the money and could get rid of my other two MBs in the process.

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TC
Current stable:
- 2004 Mazda RALLYWANKEL
- 2007 Saturn sky redline
- 2004 Explorer...under surgery.

Past: 135i, GTI, 300E, 300SD, 300SD, Stealth