The Mercedes-Benz R129 SL series marks a pivotal chapter in the brand’s storied lineage—a modern classic that bridged the analogue precision of old-world engineering with the emerging sophistication of the digital age. Bruno Sacco’s ’most perfect design’ introduced ground-breaking innovations and a design language that still turns heads today. Over its production span, Mercedes-Benz introduced several special edition R129s, and the platform became a canvas for top-tier tuners. AMG R129 models were infused with muscular performance and visual aggression. Meanwhile, independent powerhouses like Brabus, RENNtech, and Carlsson offered their own high-octane interpretations, each pushing the limits of refinement, raw output and unique styling.

In this article, we dive into some of the most exciting and sought-after versions of the R129—highlighting the standout features, performance upgrades, and what makes each model a must-know (and must-have) for true enthusiasts.

Special Editions of the R129 SL

1995: Mille Miglia Edition

To commemorate the 40th anniversary of Stirling Moss’s legendary 1955 Mille Miglia victory, Mercedes-Benz released the Mille Miglia Edition in 1995. This special edition was available for SL 320, and SL 500 models. Each car featured Brilliant Silver Metallic paint, Evo II six-spoke polished alloy wheels (also used on the 190E 2.5-16 Evolution II), and a distinctive chequered flag emblem on the side air vents. The interior boasted a distinctive red and black leather combination complemented by carbon-fibre trim. The numbers are murky but it is believed only 40 right hand drive units were produced, making it one of the rarest R129 models. Given its limited production and unique characteristics, the Mille Miglia Edition holds significant value among collectors today.

1997: 40th Anniversary Roadster Edition

1997 40th Anniversary Roadster Edition R129 SL – Classic.com

1997: La Costa Edition

1997 La Costa Edition R129 SL – CLASSIC.com

The 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL500 La Costa Edition is one of the rarest factory R129 variants, with just 30 units produced to commemorate Mercedes-Benz’s sponsorship of the PGA Mercedes Championships at La Costa Resort in California. All examples were finished in exclusive Calypso Green Metallic (code 279) with a unique two-tone interior of Calypso Green and Black leather, accented by Eucalyptus wood trim. The edition featured the AMG body styling package, sport suspension, 18-inch Monoblock AMG wheels, and special La Costa badging on the wings and shift knob. Each car came with a custom set including an embroidered car cover, leather document portfolio, La Costa key fob, license plate, and certificate of authenticity. Of the 30 produced, 25 went to Southern California dealerships, and five were used for promotional purposes, including public giveaways.

1998: Special Edition

1998 Special Edition R129 SL – Daimler AG

In 1998, Mercedes-Benz released two distinct Special Edition R129 SL models, both limited and highly collectible. The European-market Special Edition spanned SL280 to SL600 variants, with just 500 units finished in Obsidian Black Metallic, red fabric soft tops, and red leather interiors accented by black bird’s-eye maple wood. These cars featured red-accented instrumentation, and “Special Edition” badging on the fenders and sills. In parallel, Mercedes produced a separate SL 500 Special Edition—also limited to 500 units worldwide (150 right-hand drive). This version featured Designo Vario Blue paint, 18″ AMG Monoblock wheels, Xenon headlights, and a panoramic glass hardtop. The cabin included special badging, a Designo leather interior, and the M119 5.0L V8 engine producing 322 bhp, paired with a 5-speed automatic. Though both editions carry the same name, they were tailored for different markets, with the anniversary model primarily aimed at the UK and US. Together, they showcase the R129’s late-era blend of design, performance, and exclusivity—making either variant a standout in any SL collection.

2000: SL Edition & Final Edition

2000 SL Edition R129 SL – Trade Classics

2000 Final Edition R129 SL – OldtimerIn 2000, the SL Edition (700 units)

2001: Silver Arrow Edition

2001 Silver Arrow Edition R129 SL – The SL Shop

The 2001 Silver Arrow Edition is arguably the most iconic special edition of the Mercedes-Benz R129 SL-Class, celebrating the brand’s legendary pre-war Silver Arrow race cars. Exclusive to select markets, just 1,550 units were built for the U.S.—1,450 SL 500s with a 5.0L V8 (306 hp) and 100 SL 600s with a 6.0L V12 (389 hp). An additional 100 SL 500s were produced in right-hand drive for the UK. All models were finished in Silver Arrow Metallic (code 777) with a black soft top woven with silver threads, and featured the full AMG styling package.

The cars sat on BBS Albiero two-piece alloy wheels, with perforated brake discs, silver-painted calipers, and stainless-steel exhaust tips. The cabin was equally distinctive, with two-tone black and silver Nappa leather, black bird’s-eye maple trim, white-faced aluminium gauges with chrome surrounds, and brushed aluminium pedals. Unique Silver Arrow badging appeared on the ashtray cover, illuminated door sills, and front fenders.

As the final edition of the R129 before the introduction of the R230, the Silver Arrow combined the model’s refined engineering with exclusive styling. Its rarity—especially in SL 600 form—makes it one of the most desirable and collectible variants in the SL’s storied lineage.

AMG R129 Models

AMG, the tuning house which would eventually become Mercedes-Benz’s performance division, produced several high-performance versions of the R129, each offering significant enhancements over the standard models.

AMG 500 SL 6.0 (1991)

1991 500 SL 6.0 AMG R129 SL – Bonhams Cars

The 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 SL 6.0 AMG R129 is a rare, pre-merger AMG masterpiece based on the R129 SL-Class. Built in very limited numbers—reportedly fewer than 50 units—it features a hand-built 6.0L version of the M119 V8 engine, producing around 380 hp and up to 580 Nm of torque. This power upgrade enabled 0–100 km/h in just 5.8 seconds, a serious figure for its time.

Externally, the 500 SL 6.0 AMG stood out with a full AMG body kit, colour-matched AMG O.Z. Racing three-piece wheels, and subtle badging. Inside, bespoke trim and AMG-branded instruments completed the transformation. These cars were built to order, making each one unique in configuration and extremely collectible today.

As a symbol of AMG’s engineering prowess before its full integration into Mercedes-Benz in 1993, this SL channels the raw, handcrafted spirit of the era—sharing more DNA with the legendary W124-based AMG “Hammer” than with the mass-produced AMG models that followed. The 500 SL 6.0 AMG remains one of the rarest and most coveted variants of the R129 chassis, with production numbers estimated at fewer than 50 units. Today, examples occasionally fetch close to sticker price sums at auction, reflecting both their exclusivity and historical significance. For collectors, it’s far more than just an SL.

SL 60 AMG (1993–1998)

1995 SL 60 AMG R129 SL – Tom Hartley

The SL 60 AMG R129, produced between 1993 and 1998, is the natural evolution of AMG’s earlier pre-merger V8 models—only now, it was available directly through Mercedes-Benz dealerships. It retained the signature AMG character, powered by a bored-out 6.0-litre version of the M119 V8, and featured familiar styling cues like the distinctive body kit and iconic three-piece wheels found on pre-facelift cars.

With 633 examples built, it is the most-produced AMG variant of the R129 chassis. Offering an ideal blend of performance, reliability, parts availability, and collectability, the SL 60 AMG continues to resonate with enthusiasts as one of the most usable and well-rounded classics in the AMG lineage.

SL 70 AMG (1996–1997)

1996 SL 70 AMG R129 SL – Sports Car Market

Produced in limited numbers between 1996 and 1997, the SL 70 AMG R129 housed a 7.0L V12 engine generating 496 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. With only 150 units made, its rarity is undeniable, though it is often overshadowed by the more powerful SL 73 AMG and its precursor the SL 72.

SL 72 AMG (1995)

1995 SL 72 AMG R129 SL – Motor1.com

For the SL 72 AMG R129, AMG took the SL 600’s naturally aspirated 6.0-litre M120 V12 and reengineered it into something extraordinary—boring and stroking it to a massive 7.1-litres. Paired with Mercedes’ advanced five-speed automatic transmission and riding on bespoke AMG wheels and tyres, the SL 72 didn’t just look the part—it delivered brutal performance.

Unshackled by the German manufacturers’ gentleman’s agreement to cap top speed at 250 km/h (155 mph), AMG allowed the SL 72 to stretch its legs all the way to 185 mph. It could rocket from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.8 seconds—outrageous numbers for the time.

Production of the SL 72 was short-lived and incredibly limited. Only around 35 units were ever converted by AMG, with a staggering 25 snapped up by the Sultan of Brunei. That left just 10 examples to be sold privately, making the SL 72 one of the rarest and most sought-after R129s ever built.

SL 73 AMG (1997–2001)

1999 SL 73 AMG R129 SL – Secret Classic

Arguably the pinnacle of AMG’s R129 offerings, the SL 73 AMG R129 was produced between 1997 and 2001, featuring a 7.3L V12 engine generating 525 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. Only 50 units were built, making it one of the rarest and most desirable AMG R129 models. The same engine was later used in the Pagani Zonda, further cementing its legendary status. The rarity and significance of these vehicles has led to fairly astronomical resale values.

SL 55 AMG (1998–2001)

1999 SL 55 AMG R129 SL – Supersprint

The SL 55 AMG R129, introduced between 1998 and 2001, was powered by a naturally aspirated 5.4L V8 engine producing 349 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. While it offered impressive performance, it was often overshadowed by the SL 60 AMG and the V12-powered variants, not to mention its brutish younger sibling in R230 guise which was equipped with an upgraded and much celebrated supercharged variant of the M113 V8 engine. Nevertheless, the R129 SL 55 is a rare AMG car, and so commands a premium in the marketplace.

Tuner Models: Brabus, RENNtech, Carlsson & Lorinser

Beyond AMG, other tuners modified the R129 extensively, offering bespoke styling and performance upgrades.

Brabus R129 SL

1992 Brabus 6.0-32 R129 SL – Collecting Cars

Founded in 1977 by Bodo Buschmann, Brabus has established itself as the largest independent tuner of Mercedes-Benz vehicles and is best known for extreme performance modifications. They offered R129 SL models with 3.6, 6.0L, 6.5L, 7.0L, and even 7.3L conversions. These cars featured custom aerodynamic body kits and interior enhancements, pushing the limits of the R129’s capabilities.

Featured here is the Brabus 6.0-32, powered by a heavily modified 6.0-litre variant of the early KE-Jetronic M119 V8 engine producing 400 horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque. Chassis enhancements include a sport-tuned suspension system and upgraded braking components to ensure that the vehicle’s handling matches its increased power. The exterior styling exudes aggression, enhanced by a bold body kit and exclusive attention grabbing wheels.

Inside, the cabin is adorned with high-quality materials, featuring an extended leather interior and Brabus-specific elements such as a custom speedometer and branded sill trims. These touches enhance the luxurious ambiance while emphasizing the vehicle’s exclusivity.

With only 45 units produced worldwide, the Brabus 6.0-32 remains a coveted collector’s item, embodying the pinnacle of Brabus’s engineering prowess.

RENNTech R129 SL

1996 RENNtech SL 74 R129 SL – Carscoops

Founded by ex-AMG engineer Hartmut Feyhl, RENNtech has a deep understanding of Mercedes systems, allowing for factory-level refinement coupled with massive performance gains. RENNtech has developed several high-performance versions of the Mercedes-Benz R129 SL-Class, here we feature the RENNtech SL 74 – a rare, high-performance take on the Mercedes-Benz R129 SL 600, featuring an extensively reworked 7.4L M120 V12 engine producing around 575 hp and 594 lb-ft of torque. Upgrades include titanium rods, larger valves, a forged crankshaft, and ported heads. A strengthened 4-speed automatic transmission and custom limited-slip differential help manage the added power.

Suspension improvements—lowered springs and thicker sway bars—enhance handling, while 18-inch OZ Racing wheels house large 14-inch Alcon brakes for serious stopping power. Despite its performance, the SL 74 retains a sleeper aesthetic with subtle exterior tweaks like a vented hood and RENNtech badging. Balancing brute strength and refined styling, the RENNtech SL 74 stands as one of the most powerful and exclusive R129 builds ever produced. Official production numbers are publicly unavailable since each was built to order, but it’s clear these are exceptionally rare and consistently command a significant premium.

Carlsson R129 SL

1993 Carlsson C60 R129 SL – Car & Classic

Founded by former race driver Rolf Hartge, Carlsson is a respected Mercedes-Benz tuning house known for creating performance-focused, luxuriously appointed machines with distinctive styling. Among its most elusive builds is the Carlsson C60, a rare and powerful version of the Mercedes-Benz R129 SL-Class.

The Carlsson C60 R129 was based on the SL 500 and featured a heavily modified 6.0-liter V8 producing up to 395 horsepower and 595 Nm of torque. Engine upgrades included high-performance pistons, a reworked intake and exhaust system, and ECU tuning tailored for sharp throttle response and mid-range power.

Chassis modifications included Carlsson’s lowered suspension setup, stiffer anti-roll bars, and a sport-tuned differential for improved cornering balance. The car rode on classic Carlsson multi-piece alloy wheels, often 18-inch, wrapped in low-profile performance rubber.

Visually, the C60 kept things elegant yet assertive. Subtle Carlsson badging and custom staggered wheels distinguished it from standard R129s without overshadowing the SL’s timeless design.

Inside, buyers could spec premium leather upholstery, custom wood trim, and Carlsson-specific gauges or door sills. The Carlsson C60 remains one of the most tasteful and potent V8-powered R129 builds—rare, fast, and infused with genuine motorsport DNA.

Lorinser R129 SL

1995 Lorinser R129 SL – OldBenz

Lorinser, one of the most established Mercedes-Benz tuners in Germany, earned its reputation by blending visual drama with refined performance upgrades. Their take on the Mercedes-Benz R129 SL-Class showcased a distinctive design language paired with well-rounded enhancements under the skin.

Lorinser R129 builds typically featured performance tweaks such as a freer-flowing exhaust system, sport-tuned suspension, and custom engine remaps. While the mechanical gains were moderate compared to firms like RENNtech or Brabus, the focus was on balance and real-world drivability, not just headline numbers.

The real hallmark of Lorinser’s R129 was its bodywork. A signature widebody kit, featuring muscular wheel arches, sculpted side skirts, and an aggressively vented front bumper, transformed the SL’s elegant lines into something far bolder. Many examples were finished with Lorinser LM1 monoblock wheels, perfectly filling the widened arches and enhancing road presence.

Inside, Lorinser offered high-end upholstery options, from quilted leather to alcantara headliners, along with custom steering wheels and badge detailing. These builds maintained the SL’s luxury feel while adding a unique, almost coachbuilt touch.

While Lorinser R129s might not match the raw horsepower of a RENNtech SL 74, they more than make up for it in style, rarity, and unmistakable German tuning heritage. A Lorinser R129 is for those who want to stand out—not just for performance, but for presence.

The Legacy of the R129 Special Editions

While this overview doesn’t cover every special edition or tuner-modified R129, it provides a solid cross-section of the most iconic and noteworthy variants. The R129 remains one of the most respected roadsters Mercedes-Benz has ever produced. For collectors, the rarer Special Editions offer exclusivity and historical significance. For enthusiasts, AMG variants and tuner models deliver enhanced performance and aggressive styling without compromising the SL’s grand touring roots.