Enthusiasts and owners seeking in-depth technical knowledge for maintenance and repair
Competitive Analysis
Competitors 1990S:
BMW 8 Series Convertible, Jaguar XJS, Porsche 911 Targa/Cabriolet
Key Features
Vehicle Identity:
Flagship luxury convertible, blend of performance and comfort, iconic Mercedes-Benz engineering
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and independent mechanics with factory-level diagnostic and repair information, crucial for preserving the value and functionality of a classic Mercedes-Benz
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Covered Years:
1990, 1991, 1992, 1993
Covered Models:
All 500SL variants
Page Count
Estimated Pages:
1500+
Manual Type
Type:
Workshop Repair and Service Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
PDF Download
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine Mechanical:
Full disassembly, assembly, timing, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection (Bosch KE-Jetronic)
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starter, alternator, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics and wiring diagrams
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, hydraulic systems (e.g., self-leveling rear axle if equipped on some variations)
Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced diagnostics and complete overhaul procedures
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Type:
Searchable PDF
Quality:
High-resolution scans for clarity
Print Quality
Printability:
Printable for workshop use
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
M119 E50
Configuration:
V8
Displacement:
5.0 Liters (4973 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
96.5 mm x 85.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Performance
Horsepower:
322 hp @ 5750 rpm
Torque:
354 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm
Fuel System
Type:
Bosch KE-Jetronic Electronic Fuel Injection with Air Flow Meter (AFM)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Engine Management
ECU Type:
Digital Engine Control Unit (DEC)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Model Code:
722.3xx series
Features
Shift Modes:
Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes
Fluid Specifications
Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron III or equivalent
Fluid Capacities
Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 8.5 Liters (8.9 US Quarts) for a complete fluid change.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 4775 mm (188.0 inches)
Width:
Approx. 1810 mm (71.3 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1308 mm (51.5 inches)
Wheelbase
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2600 mm (102.4 inches)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1800-1900 kg (3968-4189 lbs)
Wheels Tires
Standard Wheel Size:
16-inch alloy wheels
Standard Tire Size:
225/55 R16
Bolt Pattern:
5x112 mm
🛡️ Safety Features
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag (standard from 1990), Passenger airbag (optional/standard on later models within this range)
Rollover Protection:
Automatic rollover hoops that deploy in the event of a rollover.
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioning seatbelts
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ratings
NHTSA Ratings:
Not specifically rated by NHTSA for this era in the same way modern vehicles are; built to strict Mercedes-Benz safety standards of the time.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Radio System:
Factory-fitted cassette radio with optional CD changer. Basic analog controls.
Display:
Analog gauges for speed, RPM, temperature, and fuel. Warning lamps for system status.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Traction Control:
Often equipped with Acceleration Slip Regulation (ASR) in later models or as an option.
Connectivity
External Connectivity:
Limited to power antennas; no modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity from the factory.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.
Transmission Fluid Interval:
Recommended at 60,000-100,000 miles, or if fluid shows signs of degradation.
Coolant Change Interval:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3, viscosity typically 10W-40 or 15W-50 depending on climate.
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz approved coolant (e.g., G48 or equivalent) mixed at a 50/50 ratio with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 low viscosity.
Known Issues
Wiring Harness:
Degradation of wiring harness insulation, particularly in the engine bay, due to age and heat.
Hydraulic Systems:
Leaks in convertible top hydraulics, suspension components, or power steering.
Engine Management Kejetronic:
Issues with the Air Flow Meter (AFM) sensor, fuel distributor, or control pressure regulator can cause drivability problems.
Convertible Top Mechanism:
Potential failures in the hydraulic pump, cylinders, and switches controlling the soft top operation.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Marque Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz is renowned for its engineering excellence, safety innovations, and luxury vehicles dating back to the late 19th century.
Model Evolution
Predecessor:
Mercedes-Benz R107 SL-Class
Introduction Year:
1989 (as a 1990 model year vehicle)
Key Innovations R129:
Introduction of the M119 V8 engine, significantly updated aerodynamics, advanced safety features (rollover protection, ABS), and improved interior comfort.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Sindelfingen, West Germany (later Germany)
Production Span:
1989-2001 (R129 chassis)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Auto Magazine Ratings:
Consistently praised by automotive publications of its era for its build quality, performance, and luxurious appointments. Often featured in 'best of' lists for luxury convertibles.
Collector Status:
Highly regarded by collectors and enthusiasts for its timeless design and engineering, appreciating in value as a modern classic.
Certifications
Safety Standards:
Compliant with all applicable European and North American safety standards for its production years.
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