The Mercedes-Benz R129 300SL is a classic luxury roadster that was part of the R129 generation of the SL-Class, produced from 1989 to 2001. It marked a major leap forward in technology, safety, and refinement compared to its predecessor, the R107.

​

Production Years (300SL): 1989–1993

Engine: 3.0-liter inline-six

available as:

• 12-valve SOHC (early models, ~188 hp)

• 24-valve DOHC (from 1990 onward, ~228 hp)

Transmission: 5-speed manual (rare) or 4-speed automatic (most common)

Drive Layout: Rear-wheel drive (RWD)

Chassis & Suspension: Fully independent suspension. Adaptive damping available on later models

Safety Innovations:

• Automatically deploying roll bar (pioneering for the era)

• Integrated seat belts in the seats

• Dual airbags (first time for SL-Class)

Luxury & Tech: 

• Electrically operated soft top

• Optional hardtop with panoramic glass

• Power-adjustable seats with memory

• Available leather and wood interior trim

Design: Penned by Bruno Sacco, the R129 has a timeless, angular design with clean lines and a wide, low stance. Classic Mercedes styling with the upright grille and three-pointed star.

Driving Character: The 300SL strikes a balance between comfort and performance, with smooth power delivery and refined cruising ability.

While not the most powerful R129 variant, the 300SL offers a pure, lightweight driving experience compared to the later V8 and V12 models.