1994 Mercedes-Benz SL600 Convertible

Launched in 1989 to replace the long-running 107 SL series, the new R129 was hailed as one of the most sophisticated sports cars on the planet and rapidly became the benchmark in its' class. Initially available with a choice of six or eight-cylinder engines, by July 1992 Mercedes-Benz had added their new M120 V-12 engine to the line-up as the new range topper. The R129 again offered the versatility of a removable hardtop (now with heated rear window) that effectively turned the convertible into a neat fixed-head coupe, with a soft-top for the summer months. In 1994, Mercedes-Benz changed their model nomenclature and the V-12 was re-badged the SL600 with the new system. Under the bonnet, the all-alloy DOHC V-12 displaced 6-litres and developed 389 bhp at 5200 rpm and 420 lb/ft of torque at 3800 rpm, using the latest ME 1.0 electronic fuel injection system from 1994. The only transmission available was a driver-adaptive electronically controlled five-speed automatic that perfectly suited the effortless nature of the V-12 engine. Suspension was independent front and rear, with a complex multi-link set-up at the rear, with an Adaptive Damping System and ABS both standard. The SL600 was always fiendishly expensive in Australia when new, ensuring the model's exclusivity here, with an eye watering list price of $351,705 in 1994.