Sl500 R129 ???
 

Hi,
I am thinking about purchasing a 2 seat roadster, options are '03SLK 320, '03BMW Z4 or '98-'99 sl500. As far as the SL500 goes, is the 113 ('98) motor any more reliable than the 119 ('99), or does one feel stronger than the other?
How about the construction of the R129, is it rattle and flex free? What are some areas that have problems and what should I be looking for?
I know that the SL is quite a different car than the other two that I mentioned, I feel that it more substantial, powerful and just as fast. Do you agree? Any advice is sincerely appreciated.
TIA
PSoin

Psoin,
Since you are from Annapolis, guess you must have seen the three R129 sitting in the lot at Mecedes Benz of Annapolis? There was a Black '99 SL500 with very low mile in the lot last week. It was sold over the weekend.

I believe both engines are pretty reliable. From talking to the techs at the dealer, they said they hardly have any problems with those engines.

If you are looking to buy a late model one, there should not be too much problem as most have already worked out in the earlier models. I do recommend to buy a Star Mark car. In case something does go wrong, the dealer will fix it for free. Make sure you ask for FMBSH, or at leat FSH of the car. It will ensure years of worry free driving fun.

SL are very well constructed vehicle. Mine is '95 and has no body flex or rattle. It is built like a Panzer, and as a matter of fact it sets the standard of roadster constructions.

If you are going to the dealer, make sure you ask for Nick. Tell him the guy with the white SL and black ML send you. He will take good care of you.

Good luck for your hunt. The new Z4 is very sweet looking. But I think it will be like the Z3, there will be so many of them all over the road in a couple of years. However, the SL will always retain that exclusitivity.