R129 model history
The R129 model was produced from 1989 through 2001 as the fourth model in the SL series. During this time, 2 facelifts were made, - one for the 1994 model and one for the 1999 model. On the outside, only very minor changes were made. The 1994 model differs from the previous year in that there are two air vents on the front fender instead of three. In addition, the model designation was changed from, for example, "300SL" to "SL300". From the 1999 model, the door handles were painted and the rear lights slightly changed. Under the hood, major changes were made. Initially, the model came either as the 300SL (straight-six) or the 500SL V8. From 1994, two new V6 engines could be offered – the SL280 and SL320. From 1999, the R129 could be had with the SL600 V12.
Mercedes-Benz in the 90s
The R129 was based on a shortened version of the E-Class (W124) platform. It shared the drivetrain with the S-Class (W140) of the time, which will later be the model in which Princess Diana was killed. The popular princess also owned several Mercedes-Benzes, including a red R129 in the same color as the one pictured here. The 90s will hardly be remembered as a good decade for Mercedes-Benz – a decade that ended with rust problems for almost all models. On forum pages for R129 owners, it appears that the R129 has not been particularly badly affected by the rust problems.
About the pictures
The red car is a The red is a Series II car produced between 1994 and 1998. It is an SL500 with a V8 engine which is photographed in a car park at Fornebu. The black one with soft-top is a series I car, 300SL, also the one photographed street-parked at Fornebu. The blue car with white flashing lights was photographed at the old halls at Fornebu, which have now been demolished in favor of the subway. The blue cabriolet is a 300SL that was parked at Motangen on Blaker. The burgundy red car – an SL 500 – was photographed at Fornebu, 2024.
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