WOLF retro DESIGN REVIEW. 1st July 2025
Could the R129 Mercedes be the most timeless SL of them all?
A retro review looks at products that are at least over ten years old from a present-day WOLF design perspective. While the technology and fashion of the period influence design, and are taken into consideration, great design ideas will transcend their eras to be timeless.
Interesting and factual information may be provided, but our review aims to deliver insight from the perspective of a designer’s mind and eyes.
Its time is now.
Introduction
This review is of a 1998 SL600 designated by Mercedes-Benz as the R129. The R129 exists in many variants, with the most popular being the 500SL and SL500, produced from 1989 to 2002. It was the fourth generation in the iconic SL lineage and replaced the long-lived R107, which had one of the longest production runs in automotive history, spanning from 1972 to 1989.
While the R129 debuted in 1989, this review focuses specifically on the facelifted 1998 SL600 model. Excluding AMG variants, the 600 was considered the flagship of the range with its V12 engine. When new, this car cost over $200,000 in Australia, which limited production numbers significantly. Despite its exclusivity, it is still possible to find one for sale, though silver examples like the one featured here are especially rare. Most others will be private imports from the UK or Hong Kong.
Today, a sound example can typically be purchased for less than half the original price. Being the top of the line, most SL600s have been well cared for, properly serviced and stored. They are still very modern to drive and comfortable, making them an excellent alternative for someone seeking a car that is both a collectable classic and a useable luxury machine.
The R129 marked a dramatic leap forward in design. When it was released, it looked so futuristic that it almost felt like a model had been skipped between it and the R107. No other SL has ever been built with the same degree of intensity in engineering, technology and safety. This was the last of the truly over-engineered SLs from an era when Mercedes-Benz still built to a standard rather than a price.
Review
First Impressions
The SL600 still impresses today with the same perfect proportions that made jaws drop when the R129 first appeared. It was strong, modern and full of presence without being flashy or aggressive. This was the first SL to move completely away from chrome and rubber guards. It was a bold step forward, making a clear statement that Mercedes had built the best roadster in the world. And back in the late 90s, nothing came remotely close.
Exterior Design
Everything on the R129 was sleeker and more refined than what came before. The front now featured a distinctive wedge shape that improved aerodynamics. Although it projected forward, the stance still felt calm and composed, leaning back just slightly as if at rest. It was not aggressive, and that’s part of what makes it look so effortlessly cool.
The lines are disciplined and measured. Mercedes were masters of evolutionary design and never made wild leaps stylistically. When you park a R129 next to a R107, you can clearly see the lineage, even if the newer car looks dramatically more modern.
Side vents behind the front wheels reference the legendary 300SL Roadster of the 1950s. Early R129s had squarer vents, but facelifted models like this one use two longer, more rounded vents that feel more fluid and better integrated. This car is fitted with the AMG styling package, which includes deeper front and rear bumpers and more pronounced side skirts. It also wears AMG Monoblock wheels which visually lower the car and make it look more compact and purposeful.
One of the key differences in this car, which we appreciate, is the retention of the earlier squarer side mirrors. Later models introduced more rounded mirrors, which look somewhat soft and less fitting on a car with such strong architectural lines.
From the front, the car sits low and wide, with a clean integration of grille, headlights and indicators. The indicator lenses are clear rather than amber, reinforcing the modern feel. The A-pillars are another standout design achievement, beautifully sculpted to merge with the guards and bonnet. The hardtop roof, especially the panoramic glass version on this model, is also a design triumph. When fitted, it makes the car appear like a proper coupé. Unlike earlier SLs, there are no awkward lines or tell-tale signs that the roof is removable.
In fact, the panoramic hardtop is one of the rarest and most expensive SL options ever. It alone cost around $25,000 when new and it is extremely heavy. We recommend at least four adults to safely lift and remove it unless a ceiling hoist system is available.
From the rear, the car rises slightly, completing the wedge profile. The rear lights and overall mass are proportionate and understated, finishing off what is still one of the most beautifully resolved Mercedes designs to date.
The facelifted models reduced the number of grill slats from 7 to 6 to look less dense and busy.
The external A-pillars were cleverly designed to drain rain water away for improved visibility through the side windows.
The “wedge” that is all so relaxed.
Interior Design
The interior of this SL600 is something truly special. It features a rare and very tasteful specification of two-toned grey leather with black bird’s-eye maple wood trim. This combination is both smart and bold, without being loud or flashy. It complements the silver exterior perfectly and gives the car a unique character that feels both luxurious and sporty.
Unlike lesser variants, the SL600 featured fully stitched leather across the dashboard, door panels and centre armrests. This treatment elevates the entire cabin experience, creating a more bespoke and high-end feel. It is nearly impossible to replicate or repair properly, so finding one in good condition is important.
The seats are lounge-like in comfort, yet full of advanced technology, with integrated seatbelts and multi-way electric adjustment. The design of the headrests, along with the way the belts are fed through the seats, looks like something from a spaceship.
Woodwork is extensive but never excessive. The centre console and surrounding areas feature sweeping curves of timber that add warmth and class. The roller-style cover for the central storage compartment is beautifully executed, made with matching timber slats that glide away like a piece of cabinetry.
If there is a criticism to be made, it mainly concerns the facelifted R129 models. In these later versions, Mercedes attempted to introduce more curves to the seats and door panels to keep the interior looking contemporary and softer. However, this created a bit of a design tension with the original interior, which was characterised by clean, straight lines and a very structured, architectural feel.
This kind of challenge is common in cars with long production runs when manufacturers want to refresh the look without losing the core design language. But with a brand like Mercedes-Benz, where every element is carefully conceived to form part of a cohesive whole, introducing new curves on top of an originally straight-lined design can sometimes feel a little forced or inconsistent. The early R129 interiors with their geometric simplicity and linearity feel more purposeful, while the facelifted interiors sometimes appear a touch busy or less harmonious.
That said, this is a minor quibble in an interior that remains remarkably timeless and well executed overall.
The car in this review is optioned with a wooden steering wheel which further adds to the luxuriousness of the interior
The incredible Panoramic glass roof.
Craftsmanship
The SL600 hails from an era when Mercedes-Benz built cars with an obsession for quality. Every switch, hinge and button feel engineered to last. Doors close with a reassuring thunk. Panel gaps are tight and consistent. Leather, wood and plastics all feel premium and durable.
That said, no car is immune to age. Over time, the wood veneer on the centre console can warp or crack, especially when exposed to sunlight. This is a common issue and usually needs professional restoration. The same goes for the driver’s seat side bolster. Because the seats hug your body, that section gets a lot of wear as people slide in and out of the car. If not cared for, it will show visible cracking or wear, but again, this is repairable with proper materials.
Another minor issue is the instrument cluster hood, which on some R129s develops a sort of surface mould or discolouration. This was also seen in other models of the era like the W124 and W126. While not structural, it is worth noting and can usually be restored.
The facelifted models also replaced the more durable metal speaker covers with cloth mesh ones on the door bottoms. These are unfortunately very easy to scuff with your feet when getting in or out. Earlier cars had metal covers that dented easily but were at least more resistant to abrasion.
Despite these age-related concerns, a well-kept SL600 is still a remarkably solid and luxurious machine. It feels as tight and robust today as it did when new.
Mercedes classic ribbed rear tail lights.
Function and Experience
This is a car that is not just beautiful, but very usable. It is easy to drive, with a wide, airy cabin and excellent visibility. It is not a low-slung, cramped sports car. It feels grand and generous. The panoramic roof adds to the sense of space and the amount of glass and light makes it feel more like a lounge than a cockpit.
The controls are all well placed and nothing feels overdone. The electric seat buttons are a bit awkwardly positioned low down near the hip, but once adjusted, the seats offer excellent comfort. As noted earlier, you do have to be mindful of the door speaker covers to avoid scuffing them with your feet.
This was the first Mercedes convertible to feature a fully automatic soft-top that operated at the push of a button. At the time, this was groundbreaking. The mechanism is smooth and elegant and still works brilliantly today.
Driving with the hardtop installed gives the car the character of a luxurious coupé. With the roof off, it becomes a refined open-air cruiser. Either way, it is extremely comfortable and quiet for a convertible.
The hardtop roof, especially the panoramic glass version, is extremely heavy. We strongly recommend a team of at least four adults when removing or refitting it, as improper handling can lead to damage or injury. Alternatively, a ceiling hoist system is advisable for owners planning regular seasonal changes.
The SL600 feels modern even by today’s standards. It offers a sense of calm, precision and confidence that very few modern cars can replicate. It is complex, but not complicated. Luxurious, but never brash. It is a grand tourer in the truest sense.
Electric seats and headrests with memory!
Desirability and Value
For years, the R129 SLs flew under the radar. Their subtle looks and modern amenities meant they were not seen as classics. But that perception has shifted. Clean, low-mileage examples are being snapped up by collectors and the SL600 is gaining recognition as a pinnacle of 90s engineering and design.
It still feels modern enough to drive every day, yet it has all the character of a true classic. From a safety standpoint, it was far ahead of its time, with features like rollover bars, airbags and advanced stability systems. It is luxurious, elegant and commanding without being showy.
The 600 badges on the rear tells those in the know that this is something special. And those who do not know will still recognise its presence.
WORD OF THE WOLF
In our opinion, this is the car to own right now. Bargains are getting harder to find, but the good news is that these cars are still young enough to be found in excellent condition, often with little to no restoration required.
The R129 SL600 is a design and engineering masterpiece from a golden era. With its rare options, understated elegance and daily usability, it is a car that you can both drive and admire for decades to come. The L600 is an instant classic that commands respect and one that only gets better with time.
WOLF DESIGN EXCELLENCE SCORE = 8.5
With a whopping score of 8.5 the 560SEC is one of our highest scoring reviews ever and well up there with the W113 Pagoda Mercedes and W11 280SE 3.5 cabriolets.
Disclaimer
The information in this review is intended for informational or educational purposes to provide readers an understanding of how something may be seen from a certain design perspective. In this case it is from the view point of WOLF DESIGNS. As design is subjective this review should only be considered as an independent opinion. Information further to being of an opinion is provided to the best of our knowledge based on our own research at the time of doing the review. We cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies or inconsistencies and reserve the right to change or update any content as appropriate.
The final responsibility of the design resides with the original manufacturer.