When Mercedes-Benz introduced the R129 SL in 1989, it represented a ground-breaking advancement in technology, safety, and design over its predecessor, the R107. Celebrated upon release and cherished throughout the 1990s, the R129 eventually slipped into relative obscurity—until now. As of 2025, interest has surged once again: collectors, enthusiasts, and influencers alike have brought it back into the spotlight. Investing in an R129 is no longer just a nostalgic indulgence but a serious consideration for those with an eye for appreciating classics. In this overview, we explore why and how the R129 has regained attention—and what you should look for if you’re thinking of diving in.

 

🔥 A Surge in Popularity: The R129 Is No Longer a Sleeper

The market has caught up. As of Q1 2025, Hagerty and Classic.com both report a steady upward trend in SL prices—particularly for pristine, low-mileage, special-edition models. Some key numbers:

SL 500 average auction price: £17,500–£30,000, depending on mileage, specification and condition.

SL 600 average price: £24,000–£44,000, with rare examples hitting six figures.

An early SL 73 AMG originally supplied to the Sultan of Brunei, which The R129 Co has been supplying parts and services for toward its restoration sold in 2024 for £340,000 on Collecting Cars.

🎥 The YouTube Effect

Chris Harris of Top Gear fame declared his personal SL 500 “one of the best-balanced cars Mercedes ever made,” with a “deliciously over-engineered” vibe. His video tour in early 2024 has amassed over 500k views and gave the car cult credibility among younger enthusiasts.

Meanwhile, Jason Cammisa and Derek Tam-Scott’s deep dive on The Carmudgeon Show gave the R129 a thorough retrospective, calling it “a product of peak Mercedes” and “utterly bulletproof if properly maintained.”

Even Doug DeMuro has spotlighted the R129, helping it capture the attention of a younger, wider audience than ever before.