2001 Mercedes-Benz SL500 R129

• Final year of the iconic R129 SL-Class, known for timeless design and safety tech.

• Packs a naturally aspirated 5.0L V8 delivering over 300 hp.

• Still holds enthusiast value thanks to classic styling and solid engineering.

Design That Still Holds Up

Even after more than two decades, the 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL500 R129 doesn’t look out of place on modern roads. The design, signed off by Bruno Sacco, rides that fine line between elegance and muscle. Long hood, wide stance, short rear deck—it's got presence without shouting. No oversized grilles, no design drama. Just good proportions and clean surfaces that aged gracefully.

This final model year came with subtle tweaks—body-colored lower panels, updated wheels, and high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps that, at the time, felt futuristic. And yes, that iconic pop-up roll bar is still cool. The whole thing reads more like a statement of confidence than an attempt to keep up with trends.

V8 Power and a Relaxed Swagger

Beneath the hood, the SL500 stuck to what it knew best—a 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8. Output? Around 302 hp (225 kW) and 339 lb-ft of torque, which was more than respectable back in '01. Mated to a 5-speed automatic, it delivered the kind of effortless acceleration that didn’t require drama to be effective.

It’s not razor-sharp like a Porsche from the same era, but that was never the point. The R129 is more about confident highway pulls and serene grand touring. The adaptive damping system and multi-link rear suspension helped it stay composed in corners, though this car was happiest stretching its legs on the open road.

Interior and Tech That Were Ahead of Their Time

Step inside, and you’re reminded how Mercedes defined luxury in the late '90s and early 2000s. Solid switchgear, soft leather, real wood trim. No big screens or touchscreen gimmicks here. Just clean analog dials, heated seats, a Bose audio system, and dual-zone climate control that still works like a charm.

Then there’s the safety: the SL500 featured a fully automatic convertible top, that pop-up roll bar, and brake assist—stuff that feels normal now but was still fairly cutting-edge back then.

The End of an Era

The 2001 SL500 marked the end of the R129’s 12-year run. It launched in 1989 and helped reframe what a luxury roadster could be. And while newer SLs went on to get faster, lighter, and more digital, few had the same physical presence.

Back then, it started at around $83,800 in the U.S. Today, clean examples are gaining traction with collectors who appreciate its analog soul and everyday usability.

Technical Specifications: 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL500 R129

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Performance

• Engine: 5.0L M113 V8

• Power Output: 302 hp (225 kW) @ 5,600 rpm

• Torque: 339 lb-ft (460 Nm) @ 2,700 rpm

• 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph): 6.5 seconds

• Top Speed: 250 km/h (155 mph), electronically limited

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Body Measurements

• Length: 4,499 mm (177.1 in)

• Width: 1,812 mm (71.3 in)

• Height: 1,298 mm (51.3 in)

• Wheelbase: 2,515 mm (99.0 in)

• Curb Weight: 1,870 kg (4,125 lbs)

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Powertrain

• Transmission: 5-speed automatic

• Drive Type: Rear-wheel drive (RWD)

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Capacities

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 80 liters (21.1 US gallons)

• Seating Capacity: 2 occupants

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Price

• Original MSRP in the U.S.: $83,800

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