1998 Mercedes-Benz SL500

This 1998 example of the Mercedes-Benz SL500 boasts the optional extra “sport” package, which was just trim and tires — not suspension, engine or drive train.  This is one of the second versions of the SL500 which were made from 1996 through1998, and is now considered the most desirable.  You can identify this version by the two long, rounded vents in each front fender and the classic square stepped tail lights. 

The 5-speed is the main reason that these and newer cars are so much more drivable and fun than earlier cars, and also why they give better fuel economy.  Even at part throttle these downshift expertly, unlike the older transmission which would rarely downshift for anything, cheating you out of much of the engine’s performance for real-world driving.  The transmission learns what you’re doing — so if you’re racing, it stays downshifted for a while before upshifting.  Caution: unlike the latest electronic transmissions, it’s not quite smart enough to prevent you from shifting into reverse at 100MPH, or so I’m told.

Every SL ever made is worth owning if you find one in stellar condition, especially a 1997 or 1998 model and this example is no exception.

Color: Dark Blue

Body: Convertible

Transmission: Automatic

Engine: coming soon

Top Speed: coming soon

Horsepower: coming soon

Condition: Original

Car’s History: coming soon

Claim to Fame: coming soon

Mileage: coming soon

Price: Please inquire