MB 236.8 or 236.7 Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF), e.g., Mobil ATF 134 or equivalent
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
4750 mm (187.0 in)
Width:
1810 mm (71.3 in)
Height:
1300 mm (51.2 in)
Wheelbase:
2500 mm (98.4 in)
Front Track:
1540 mm (60.6 in)
Rear Track:
1525 mm (60.0 in)
Weights
Curb Weight:
1850 kg (4079 lbs) approx.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
2200 kg (4850 lbs) approx.
Fuel Capacity:
80 Liters (21.1 US Gallons)
Towing Capacity:
Not Recommended/Specified
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Rating:
No formal NHTSA ratings available for this era, but designed to high Mercedes-Benz safety standards.
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Bosch Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation) available on later models within this range.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags (standard)
Rollover Protection:
Automatic, hydraulically deployed rollover bar activated by sensors
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point inertia reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners
Body Construction:
High-strength steel chassis and body panels, integrated safety cell
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Premium sound systems (e.g., Becker) were available, often with cassette players.
Navigation:
Optional early navigation systems may have been available on some models, but less common.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Seat Memory:
Power adjustable seats with memory function
Climate Control Type:
Automatic climate control with air conditioning
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on in-car comfort and safety systems.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).
Major Service Interval:
Refer to manual for 'Service A' and 'Service B' type intervals, typically around 20,000-30,000 km (12,000-18,000 miles) for more comprehensive checks and fluid changes.
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 3 (check owner's manual for specific MB approval)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
MB 236.3 Power Steering Fluid or Pentosin CHF 11S
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., ZEREX G-05 or equivalent, typically a silicate-free formula with long life)
Known Issues
Wiring Harness:
Degradation of insulation on early wiring harnesses (often referred to as 'spaghetti') can lead to electrical faults.
Head Gaskets:
Potential for head gasket leaks on the M119 engine, especially if overheated.
Convertible Top Hydraulics:
Leaking hydraulic lines, pump issues, or sensor failures in the electro-hydraulic soft top system.
Mas Sensor Failure:
Failure of the Mass Airflow Sensor (MAS) in the KE-Jetronic system can cause poor running.
Catalytic Converter:
Early models may have less durable catalytic converters; replacement is common.
Introduced in 1989 (as a 1990 model) to replace the R107 SL-Class. The R129 represented a significant technological and design leap forward.
500 Sl Positioning:
The 500 SL was the flagship model of the R129 range during these initial years, showcasing the most potent engine and advanced features.
Production
Production Years R129:
1989-2001
Production Location:
Sindelfingen, Germany
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Contemporaneous Accolades:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its blend of performance, luxury, and pioneering safety features. Often cited as a benchmark for luxury roadsters.
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