Positioning:
Premium Grand Tourer (GT) Roadster, positioned as a luxury sports convertible.
Competitors:
BMW 8 Series Convertible, Porsche 911 (993 generation) Cabriolet, Jaguar XJS, Chevrolet Corvette C4.
Features Of Vehicle:
Retractable Hardtop (optional 'Vario-Roof'), powerful inline-six engine, robust build quality, advanced safety features for its era, luxurious interior.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential factory-level technical data for DIY maintenance and professional repair, enabling cost savings and proper upkeep of a complex luxury vehicle.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Maintenance, Diagnostics
Type:
Official Factory Service Manual Software
Format:
Digital Software (PDF/Proprietary Format)
Powertrain:
Engine (M104.992 3.2L Inline-6), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (5-Speed Automatic 5G-Tronic 722.6), Drivshaft, Differential, Axles
Chassis:
Suspension (Front MacPherson Struts, Rear Multi-Link), Steering System, Brakes (ABS, Ventilated Discs)
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, Power Features (Windows, Seats, Mirrors)
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Convertible Top Mechanism, Interior Trim, Seats, Safety Restraints (Airbags)
Maintenance:
Routine Service Intervals, Fluid Checks and Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication Points
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Flowcharts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Fault Code Interpretation (OBD-II)
Repair:
Component Removal and Installation, Sub-Assembly Overhauls, Major Component Rebuilds
Diagnostics:
Component Testing, Sensor Calibration, Actuator Testing, Electronic Module Diagnosis
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical diagnostics.
File Type:
Digital Software, likely PDF or a proprietary searchable format.
Quality:
High-resolution diagrams, clear text, searchable content.
Binding:
Not Applicable (Software)
Paper:
Not Applicable (Software)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated, Inline 6-Cylinder, DOHC
Displacement:
3.2 Liters (3199 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
89.9 mm x 84.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Horsepower:
228 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
232 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic M1.5.4 Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF).
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with individual coil packs.
Type:
5-Speed Automatic (5G-Tronic)
Optional Transmission:
None offered for the 1996 SL320 model.
Features:
Electronic Control, Torque Converter Lock-up Clutch, Sequential Shift Program (Comfort/Sport Modes).
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB-Approved Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) - e.g., Mercedes-Benz ATF Specification 236.10 or equivalent.
Length:
177.6 inches (4511 mm)
Width:
70.5 inches (1790 mm)
Height:
50.5 inches (1283 mm)
Wheelbase:
98.8 inches (2509 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3,700 - 3,800 lbs (1678 - 1724 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 4,675 lbs (2120 kg)
NHTSA Ratings:
Specific NHTSA crash test ratings for the 1996 R129 are not readily available in a standardized format comparable to modern vehicles, however, Mercedes-Benz had a strong reputation for safety at the time.
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (ASR), Power-assisted Speed-sensitive Steering.
Passive Safety:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags, Side Impact Protection (Reinforced Door Pillars and Chassis), Roll-over Protection System (Automatic Deployable Roll Bar).
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front pretensioners and belt force limiters.
Audio System:
Factory fitted premium audio system, often with CD changer integration (optional). Details on head unit operation and speaker replacement are covered.
Climate Control:
Automatic Climate Control (ACC) with front and rear climate control features. Manual covers system diagnostics and component replacement (e.g., blower motor, evaporator).
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control system. Manual details operation and troubleshooting.
Memory Seats:
Optional power-adjustable seats with memory functions. Manual covers seat module and switch diagnostics.
OBD Ii Port:
Features an OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant diagnostic port, allowing for scanning of engine fault codes.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000 to 16,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.
Major Service Interval:
Major services at 30,000 mile intervals typically include spark plug replacement, fuel filter, air filter, and transmission fluid service.
Engine Oil Specification:
MB 229.1 or MB 229.3 approved synthetic engine oil, SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 recommended.
Coolant Specification:
Mercedes-Benz approved coolant concentrate (e.g., G05 or similar) mixed with distilled water at a 50/50 ratio.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 specification brake fluid.
Wiring Harness:
Degradation of insulation on the engine wiring harness (biodegradable coating) is a common issue, leading to various electrical gremlins. The manual provides diagnostic procedures for this.
Convertible Top Hydraulics:
Leaking hydraulic lines or failing pumps for the convertible top mechanism can occur. Manual covers system bleeding and component replacement.
Mass Air Flow Sensor:
The MAF sensor can become dirty or fail, affecting engine performance and fuel economy. The manual details cleaning and testing procedures.
Idle Control Valve:
The idle air control valve (IACV) can become sticky or fail, causing rough idling or stalling. The manual provides troubleshooting steps.
Ignition Coil Packs:
Individual ignition coil packs can fail, leading to misfires. The manual provides testing procedures for coils and ignition modules.
Mercedes Benz Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz, founded in 1926, has a long and storied history in automotive engineering, luxury vehicles, and motorsport, synonymous with quality, innovation, and safety.
R129 Sl Evolution:
The R129 SL-Class debuted in 1989, replacing the highly successful R107. It was a significant leap forward in technology and design, offering a more modern and aerodynamic aesthetic, advanced safety features like the automatic roll bar, and a sophisticated multi-link rear suspension. The SL320, introduced in 1994, replaced the 300SL and featured the M104 inline-six engine.
Production Years:
The R129 SL-Class was produced from 1989 to 2001. The SL320 variant was produced from 1994 to 1997.
Manufacturing Location:
Bremen, Germany.
