Vehicle Description
Mercedes has always shown a knack for creating cars that withstand
the test of time unusually well - not just in terms of running
condition but also in terms of aesthetics. This 1998 Mercedes 500SL
Convertible is no exception. It's a great looking German drop top
that's sporting fresh V8 power under its hood to go along with an
impressive collection of maintenance records as proof of the good
care it's received over the years.
With its low-slung stance and sharply angled windshield, this is a
thoroughly stylish ride. While the black shade it wears can often
be a mixed bag - the color looks great when there are no serious
blemishes to pull focus but tends to amplify them if they are
present - in this case it's a decided plus, adding even more curb
appeal to a classic looking convertible possessing more than its
fair share of it already. You won't find evidence of any notable
mishaps here - the paint presents well, with the black coloring
setting off the chrome rims sitting below nicely. Up front, the
distinctive Mercedes emblem sits in a ramrod straight front grille
between a pair of Xenon headlights that carry nice, clear lenses.
Mercedes don't generally carry a lot of chrome, but what you will
encounter here - the front and back emblems, as well as the badging
proclaiming upper crust, 500 series status - is all in sharp
condition. With the top down, the upholstered roll bar really adds
to the look, and when it comes time to seek protection from the
elements, there's both a black cloth convertible top as well as a
nicely fitted, matching accessory hardtop to call on.
Open the door, climb inside and your self-image is bound to climb a
few notches. It's not just about the Mercedes name - though that's
an undeniable motivator in itself - the gray leather interior on
display here is really nice. The bucket seats may show a little bit
of wear, but they've held their distinctive shape well and offer a
nice balance of comfort and support suited for more spirited
driving. There's certainly no shortage of comfort features on board
here - you'll find very strong air conditioning, heated power
seats, a tilt column, cruise control, power door locks and power
windows all at your disposal. The trunk area in back doesn't extend
far forward into the cabin, but it makes up for it in depth to
provide welcome usable space. There are also plenty of audio
options on hand - there's a 6 CD changer to go along with the
AM/FM/Cassette stereo.
With under 45,000 miles on the factory replacement 5.0 liter V8
sitting under the hood, it's got a bright future with plenty of
miles in front of it. It's a strong powerplant, good for 315
horsepower and 347 lb-ft of torque, and it teams with a
smooth-shifting 4 speed automatic overdrive transmission to make
this import a lot of fun to drive. An impressive array of new parts
has been added, including new suspension components, new motor and
transmission mounts and a new radiator, so it's got road-readiness
on a par with its great looks. The 500SL's low profile combines
with responsive power steering - yet another hallmark of Mercedes
engineering - to make it a blast to drive, while 4-wheel power disc
brakes provide all the stopping power needed as it turns heads on
its set of 16" stock Mercedes rims wrapped with Ventus tires in
front and Hankooks in back.
This 1998 Mercedes 500SL Convertible offers the rare opportunity to
own a well-equipped, very well documented premium convertible that
also possesses plenty of power and style at a very nice price. Call
today!
