Anniversary Edition SL - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Mino Erhan · #1 03-13-2006, 04:51 PM

I have a 97 SL500 A.E. with 60K and its absolutely perfect. No scratch or anything. 60K service performed.
Question is:
Is it actually worth more now, than the same car in the same condition but not the Anniversary Edition model? Only 500 were ever made with the options it has, including the paint color.
I am hesitant to drive the car, knowing it could fetch more money in the long run. I know it's in the eye of the beholder. Just curious.

stats007 · #2 03-13-2006, 05:00 PM

In my experience there is very little difference in price - it's worth maybe 5-10% more than the standard car at most - some of the designo colours are actually less desireable. You have to bear in mind that there was a facelift and different engine in '99 which creates a more desireable car in itself. There were about 8 different 'Special Editions' in the lifetime of the R129 from the Mille Miglia to the 40th Anniversary, Formula One, Silver Arrow, Final Edition etc.

jjrodger · #3 03-14-2006, 05:05 AM

Even if it is not worth more, it is more likely to sell sooner and at the top of its band than a comparable "stock" car. The only special edition that seems to attract a premium (at least in the UK) is the Silver Arrow, but (with respect to stats007 who I know is very fond of his SA) that may be because these are among the the last to be produced (and thus are the youngest) and if not, any premium is probably misplaced and won't last forever. Certainly, a Mille Miglia or a Final Edition (same period as the SA) seems to be worth no more than a regular car.

In my view (and that of most sensible buyers), condition is everything with these cars. Nothing will damage your car like not driving it; lack of use is the killer for all vehicles, these ones in particular. I have the brochure for your car and it is an extremely handsome vehicle. I have no doubt that all things being equal it would sell well. If it were mine, though, I'd use it and enjoy it.

page62 · #4 03-14-2006, 01:14 PM

"Saving" a car because it has potential future value is almost always a losing proposition. Despite its incrementally higher value, it is still depreciating. And you're paying insurance on the car regardless of how much or how little you drive it.

What I'm trying to say is simple: Get out there and drive the car!!!

Life's too short to do otherwise.