2002 Mercedes-Benz SL500 (R129) Silver Arrow

Background:
Introduced at the 1989 Geneva Motor Show, the R129 generation Mercedes-Benz SL combined sophisticated engineering, exceptional build quality and genuine grand touring ability. The SL500 was powered by a 5.0-litre V8 producing 326bhp and 332lb/ft of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, providing effortless performance with a claimed 0 to 60mph time of around 6.3 seconds and a top speed in excess of 150mph.

As production of the R129 drew to a close, Mercedes-Benz introduced the limited edition SL500 Silver Arrow to celebrate the model and pay tribute to the marque's Silver Arrows racing heritage. Just 100 examples were produced for the UK market, making it one of the rarest factory editions of the R129.

The Car:
First registered on 29th January 2002, this SL500 Silver Arrow is one of those 100 UK-market examples and is finished in Silver Arrow ‘777’ metallic paintwork, complemented by a two-tone black and silver Nappa leather interior. The Silver Arrow specification also includes the AMG styling package, engine-turned aluminium interior trim, Bird's Eye Maple Black wood veneer, silver brake callipers, illuminated door sills and unique Silver Arrow badging.

The car has covered a modest and warranted mileage from new and has had just two previous owners. Since being acquired by our vendor from modern-classic specialists City Classics in 2025, it has covered approximately 500 miles.

The car benefits from a particularly strong history file and has enjoyed substantial documented expenditure throughout its life. Recent maintenance includes:

• Full 'B' Service by Mercedes specialists MB Automotive in 2024
• Approximately £5,785 of expenditure during 2024
• Replacement washer pump and alternator
• Replacement air conditioning receiver dryer and condenser, the latter sourced from Germany
• Replacement lower suspension arms
• Replacement brake discs, pads and sensors supplied by Mercedes-Benz Leicester
• Replacement ABS sensor by The R129 Co.
• Replacement fuel pump and filter
• Two new Continental tyres
• Wheel refurbishment and replacement wheel trims
• Air conditioning re-gas
• Earlier major service in 2017 costing approximately £1,553
• Front latch actuators by JP Tuning in 2026 costing £1,012

The car presents particularly well throughout, with an immaculate interior showing minimal wear and bodywork described as approximately 9/10, with only minor age-related marks. There is no reported corrosion to the underside or wheel arches. For additional preservation, the car was ceramic coated in November 2025 with a three-year protective coating.

Offered with an excellent history file, substantial recent expenditure and careful ownership, this rare Silver Arrow represents a particularly complete example of the R129's final edition. With only 100 UK-market cars produced, it offers a compelling combination of rarity, specification and usability.

The cherished registration number 99 SK is not included in the sale but is available by separate negotiation.

Location: Northampton

Seller: Private

Photography: Professional