For sale by auction on Saturday 1st September 2012 with Historics at Brooklands, Brooklands Motor Racing Circuit, Weybridge, Surrey.

Registration: R664KPH

Chassis Number: WDB1290632F164979

Engine Number: 10499122030914

Estimate: £10,000 - £12,000

The Mercedes-Benz R129 models were produced from 1989 through to 2001 and were sold under the SL-Class model names. The R129 replaced the R107 SL-Class in 1989 and was subsequently replaced by the R230 in 2001.The R129 was based on the shortened floorpan of the Mercedes-Benz W124 saloon and featured many innovative details for the time - for example, electronically controlled shock absorbers (optional) and a hidden, automatically extending roll-over bar. The level of standard equipment was high, with electrically operated windows, mirrors, seats and convertible hood. The R129 came to public attention in 1991 when Diana, Princess of Wales, sold her Jaguar XJS to lease a J-registration, metallic-red 500SL, becoming the first member of the royal family to use a foreign car. This controversy sparked a media storm as it was questioned whether a member of British royalty should drive foreign cars. Media pressure eventually forced her to return the car to Mercedes-Benz in 1992 with whom it now resides in the Mercedes-Benz Museum.

On offer today is a Mercedes-Benz 320SL, finished in brilliant silver with a contrasting Bordeaux leather interior. The current vendor describes the car as being exceedingly pleasant to drive and a delight to own. This SL320 is fitted with electric seats, full power roof, climate control, cruise control, twin airbags, wood and leather steering wheel and Mercedes-Benz eight hole alloy road wheels. The vehicle comes supplied with a V5C registration document, a full year's MoT test certificate, together with a good level of service history and a factory hardtop. Representing superb value for money, this highly usable modern day sports car is already regarded as a design classic.