LOT 312

1996 Mercedes-Benz SL500 Convertible with Hardtop Registration no. N581 RGB Chassis no. WDB1290672F140454

Sold for £4,275 inc. premium

Previous Lot

Next Lot

Lot 312

1996 Mercedes-Benz SL500 Convertible with Hardtop
Registration no. N581 RGB Chassis no. WDB1290672F140454

Bonhams MPH December Auction|11 December 2020, 13:00 GMT|Bicester, Bicester Heritage

1996 Mercedes-Benz SL500 Convertible with Hardtop
Registration no. N581 RGB
Chassis no. WDB1290672F140454

Odometer reading: 110,600
MoT expiry date: 28/11/2020

*Present ownership since 2012
*Automatic transmission
*Reportedly very reliable and fun to own
*Rear suspension requires attention

In 1989 Mercedes-Benz introduced a sleek new design in the modern idiom for its range of sports roadster. This new Type 129 body used three different engine types: 6.0-litre V12, 5.0-litre V8, and 3.0-litre straight six. As installed in this SL500, the V8 produced 326bhp and offered stupendous performance, delivering a 0-62mph time of 6.2 seconds and a top speed of 155mph. As one might expect, the SL luxury sports cars were leaders in their class and lavishly equipped in the best Mercedes-Benz tradition.
This SL500 convertible was purchased by the current vendor in 2012 and is described as very reliable and fun to own, with fabulous performance. Offered in need of re-commissioning due to suspension faults, the car is sold strictly was viewed with no MoT due to insufficient time.

Please click the link to view the walkaround video of this lot: click here

To Schedule a video condition report for this lot please click here

Footnotes

Vendor Score Total: 85/100

Bidders should note that the automated 100-point Seller's Assessment is provided by each Seller at the point of consignment using the guidelines below, and is not provided, assessed or verified by Bonhams MPH. Accordingly Customers (Bidders) are on notice that each vehicle is offered "as is / as seen" subject to the Conditions of Sale for the auction, and Customers (Bidders) are strongly recommended to view the Lot(s) being offered, before bidding, in order to satisfy themselves as to their condition; Bonhams MPH will not entertain disputes over Sellers' Assessments.

Key for sellers' assessments:
1/5 POOR. A project vehicle | Requires urgent attention | Damaged | Parts missing
2/5 AVERAGE. Useable condition | Requires some attention | Light damage
3/5 GOOD. Drive away | Presents well | Good history file | Drives well
4/5 VERY GOOD. Well restored | Running and driving with no noticeable faults | Sound throughout
5/5 EXCELLENT. Concours condition | Beautifully presented | Driving very well

EXTERIOR TOTAL: 20/25
Body Work: 4
Chrome/Plastics/Trim: 5
Glass: 3
Paint: 5
Wheels/Tyres: 3

INTERIOR TOTAL: 14/20
Dashboard/Door cards/Carpets: 3
Headlining: 5
Seats: 3
Trim: 3

ENGINE TOTAL: 19/20
Mechanical components: 5
Running: 5
Starting: 5
Under Bonnet: 4

RUNNING GEAR TOTAL: 20/20
Axles: 5
Brakes: 5
Gearbox/Clutch: 5
Suspension: 5

ELECTRICAL TOTAL: 8/10
Ancillary components: 4
Main components: 4

Car History File: 4/5

Additional information

This auction is now finished. If you are interested in consigning in future auctions, please contact the specialist department. If you have queries about lots purchased in this auction, please contact customer services.
Buyers Premium and Charges
Like the vast majority of auctioneers Bonhams charge what is known as a Buyer's Premium. Buyer's Premium on all lots will adhere to Bonhams MPH policy:
12.5% + VAT of hammer price.

For Motor Cars and Motorcycles in any Bonhams MPH Auction, a 12.5% + VAT Buyer's Premium is payable on the final Hammer Price of each lot unless otherwise stated.

Some lots may be subject to VAT on the Hammer Price. These lots will be clearly marked with the relevant symbol printed beside the lot number in the catalogue.
Buyers' Obligations
ALL BIDDERS MUST AGREE THAT THEY HAVE READ AND UNDERSTOOD BONHAMS' CONDITIONS OF SALE AND AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THEM, AND AGREE TO PAY THE BUYER'S PREMIUM AND ANY OTHER CHARGES MENTIONED IN THE NOTICE TO BIDDERS. THIS AFFECTS THE BIDDERS LEGAL RIGHTS.
If you have any questions about the Conditions of Sale, please contact your nearest client services team.
From 28 June 2025, the import into the EU of non-EU property of a certain age (and in some categories above a certain value) is subject to additional requirements. Under the relevant EU Regulation, it is the Buyer's sole responsibility to assess whether any Lot meets the criteria for import into the EU. The refusal of any required Import Licence or Importer Statement, or any delay in obtaining such Licence or Statement shall not give rise to the rescission or cancellation of any Sale, nor allow any delay in making full payment for the Lot.
Payment Notices
For payment information please refer to the sale catalog.
Shipping Notices
For information and estimates on domestic and international shipping as well as export licenses please contact Bonhams Shipping Department.
- Cars