Positioning:
High-end luxury grand tourer, competitor to BMW 8 Series, Lexus SC400, and Jaguar XJS.
Key Strengths:
Exceptional build quality, powerful V8 engine, sophisticated suspension, advanced technology for its era, iconic design, and brand prestige.
Vehicle Highlights:
Retractable hardtop (SLR), power-operated soft top, advanced aerodynamics, sophisticated electronic climate control, premium interior materials.
Target Audience:
Enthusiast owners, independent repair shops, classic Mercedes-Benz specialists, DIY mechanics with a strong technical aptitude.
Primary Coverage:
Workshop Service Repair
Additional Coverage:
Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Repair, Overhaul, Electrical Schematics, Specifications
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 1000+
Type:
Comprehensive Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine (M119 V8), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission (5-speed Automatic - 722.6 series)
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS), Wheels, Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Power Accessories (windows, locks, seats, convertible top), Audio System, Climate Control (ETS), SRS Airbag System, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Convertible Top Mechanism, Interior Trim
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission, brake, power steering), filter replacements, spark plug replacement
Repair Overhaul:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, steering system overhaul, electrical component diagnosis and repair
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical circuit analysis, fault code interpretation
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, tolerances, clearances, diagnostic data, wiring diagrams
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
4973 cc (5.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
96.5 mm x 85.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Valvetrain:
SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder (24 valves total)
Horsepower:
322 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
354 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic M2.8.3 Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91 Octane Recommended)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with two ignition coils
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G48)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 11.0 Liters (11.6 Quarts)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Automatic
Transmission Model:
722.6 Series (W5A 580)
Optional Transmission:
N/A for SL500 in 1996
Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, torque converter lock-up, multiple shift modes (e.g., Comfort/Sport).
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.81 (e.g., Mobil ATF 220, Pentosin ATF 100)
Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 7.5 - 8.5 Liters (Pan Drop/Refill)
Safety Certification:
NHTSA - Not Rated (era-specific testing)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Acceleration Skid Control (ASR)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags, Optional Side Airbags
Rollover Protection:
Automatically deploying roll bar behind seats
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners
Audio System:
Bose premium sound system, often with a cassette player and CD changer (optional).
Climate Control:
Electronic Thermal-matic (ETS) automatic climate control with dual-zone temperature settings.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control with electronic actuation.
Memory Seats:
Power-adjustable front seats with multiple memory settings for driver and passenger.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era. Primarily focused on internal vehicle systems. Aftermarket Bluetooth or aux-in adapters are common.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).
Major Service Interval:
Approximately 30,000 - 50,000 miles (includes spark plugs, transmission fluid, differential fluid, coolant, filters).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40 Synthetic (API SM/SN or equivalent)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 8.0 Liters (8.5 Quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type Spec:
MB-Approval 325.0 (G48, blue-green)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (MB-Approval 331.0)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
MB 236.3 (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S)
Wiring Harness:
Degradation of insulation on engine wiring harnesses (especially around the MAF sensor and ignition coils) due to heat and age. Often requires replacement.
Hydraulic System:
Leaks in the hydraulic system for the convertible top (e.g., cylinders, hoses, pump). Also, sagging Burlwood trim on door panels/center console.
Suspension Components:
Wear in front suspension bushings, ball joints, and control arms. Self-leveling rear suspension can leak.
Transmission 722.6:
Conductor plate issues, issues with the electronic transmission control unit (ETC), and potential wear in the valve body.
Mass Air Flow Sensor:
Failure or contamination of the MAF sensor can lead to rough idling, poor acceleration, and check engine lights.
Oil Filter:
Mann-Filter HU 718/1, Hengst H316WS
Air Filter:
Mann-Filter C34201/2, Mahle LX753
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and innovation, particularly in the roadster segment dating back to the 1950s with models like the 300 SL 'Gullwing'.
R129 Introduction:
The R129 SL was introduced in 1989, replacing the acclaimed R107 generation. It represented a significant leap forward in safety, technology, and design.
1996 Updates:
The 1996 model year saw the introduction of the new 5.0L M119 engine and the 5-speed 722.6 automatic transmission across the SL range, replacing the older 4-speed unit and the 5.0L M119.960 engine.
Production Period:
1989-2001 (R129 platform)
Manufacturing Plant:
Bremen, Germany
Design Awards:
While specific awards for the 1996 model aren't readily cited, the R129 generation was consistently praised for its timeless design and engineering prowess by automotive journalists and critics worldwide.
Long Term Reliability:
Generally considered to be a well-built and reliable vehicle, but high maintenance costs and specific age-related issues (e.g., wiring harnesses) require diligent upkeep.