In 1997, only 4,832 SL320s were produced. Rare indeed, the majority of the SLs that year featured the 5.0L V-8 engine, creating the SL500. The SL300 was powered by the more efficient 3.2L inline 6-cylinder engine and 5-speed automatic transmission. A robust engine and transmission combination, the SL320 was a fabulous alternative to the much more expensive V-8- powered SL. Despite the obvious power benefits of the SL500, the SL320 was no slouch and provided spirited performance with the benefit of a lighter curb weight allowing for what some perceived as better handling in the curves and corners. This 1997 SL320 is finished in white with a tan leather interior and is fitted with air conditioning, power windows, power locks, a power-operated convertible top, power-operated bucket seats with memory, the headlight washer system, cruise control and 16-inch polished alloy wheels with Michelin tires. In typical Mercedes-Benz fashion, the interior is appointed with richly polished wood trim, supportive and adjustable bucket seats, a full battery of gauges and a host of safety amenities creating not only a luxurious car, but a safe one too. In 1973, Mercedes-Benz introduced the new R107 SL, known most popularly in the United States as the 450SL, 380SL and 560SL. A vastly popular car, the R107 spanned production through July 1989 and was an absolute classic. Retooling and investing in the new R129 SL for the 1990 model year was a huge risk, but one that had to be done in order to meet new safety and fuel efficiency demands, as well as to take the next step into the future. Slippery and smooth, the new R129 polarized the market for a moment, some loving it, others hating it, but as the 1990s came to a close, most everyone had warmed up to the car. Available in a multitude of trim levels, the R129 was available with six, eight or 12 cylinders in prices beginning in the $80,000 range.
