I have been searching for a 96-98 sl500 (for over a year) that won't cost a fortune to own, since this will be a third car in a two driver family. I have looked at several and am always disapointed. Run across so many with the hydrolic actuation system for the top leaking. All I have read stears me to the 96-98 vingtage.....last of the good ones with electronic trany. Recently I ran across an early 90's SL500 with very low milage and a Brabus package. The owner knows nothing about the car and has only owned it for a year. The owner could not tell me what was included in the Brabus package over and above the ground effects. It appears to be a eurospec mercedes.
Please advise if I should consider purchasing a earlier 90s SL500 or would a 96-98 even though more money, be a better value.

 

Hi, I have an 89 560sl and LOVE to "window shop" if you will (wish i was in your position) I have heard that the early models (500sl) have a lot more power then lets say a 98-99 etc. Personally I would go for an early model 90-93 500sl. It has a lot more horsepower and value. Here is an example...my 560 ran from 86-89. The cost in 86 was around 48 grand and by 1989 was 64 grand! And by 90 was in the 80 thousand territory. With todays prices in mind I think thats a HELL of a value! Also IMO (im a stickler for stock classics) Make sure that this brabus package is the real deal (ie not some kit that was thrown on aftermarket) I am only familiar with the r129's having just a sport package around 96-02. One last thing, I was told be a mercedes dealer to stay away from the 94-95 sl year range. Not sure why he said quality problems during there minor facelift. Hope this was a TAD helpful. Good luck with the purchase.