1. The Mercedes-Benz SL in 1995–1996: Prices, updates and options

2. Pricing updates

3. Standard features and safety upgrades

4. Options and customization

5. Mechanical and technical changes

6. The rise of designo

7. Conclusion

The Mercedes-Benz SL in 1995–1996: Prices, updates and options

In September 1995, Mercedes-Benz refreshed the domestic price list and specifications for the SL (R129) series. While the changes may seem subtle at first glance, they marked an important step in standardization, technology updates, and luxury personalization for the iconic roadster.

Pricing updates

The entry-level SL280 was listed at DM 122,475 with a manual gearbox. Buyers could add the 4-speed automatic for DM 2,785, or opt for the newer 5-speed automatic for an additional DM 1,155. The SL320, which came with the older five-speed automatic as standard, was priced at DM 133,917. The SL500, with the latest 5-speed automatic gearbox, cost DM 167,670. This represented a price increase of DM 4,600 for the six-cylinder and V8 models compared to earlier lists.

The flagship SL600 remained unchanged at DM 223,330, but the AMG SL60 saw a significant price jump to DM 217,465. The increase reflected the addition of a full AMG body kit and 18-inch wheels as standard equipment, replacing the previously optional 652 alloy wheels. By March 1996, the SL60 AMG price rose again, to DM 219,190.

Standard features and safety upgrades

Mercedes-Benz expanded the list of standard features across all SL models, aligning luxury with practicality. These included:

• Fully automatic air-conditioning

• Remote control central locking with improved anti-theft protection

• Power aerial

• Tinted and laminated glass

The brand’s emphasis on safety was also evident in traction and stability systems. The ASR traction control system dropped in price to DM 1,200, while the ESP stability system – building on ASR’s hardware—appeared as standard on the SL600 and as an option on other models.

Options and customization

Mercedes introduced several new options for the 1996 season:

• Panorama roof (DM 4,700)

• Repeater indicator lights (DM 60)

• Third brake light (DM 75)

• Cupholders (no-cost option)

• Walnut/leather gear lever (DM 285, standard on SL600)

• Xenon headlights (DM 1,550, or DM 990 on SL600)

Audio systems became more affordable, with the six-speaker setup (DM 830, standard on SL600) complementing existing high-end sound options.

For AMG enthusiasts, the body kit remained available, though certain parts like the rear spoiler and exhaust were removed from the accessory list. New 18-inch AMG split-rim wheels, paired with wide 245/40 ZR front and 275/35 ZR rear tires, were added as premium choices.

Mechanical and technical changes

From mid-1996, the six-cylinder SL models received notable mechanical updates. Both adopted the ME 2.1 engine management system and the 722.6 five-speed automatic transmission already in use on the V8 and V12 cars. This transmission improved smoothness, especially during downshifts, and included cruise control as standard.

Additionally, ASR traction control became standard on the SL280 and SL320, while ESP stability control became a new option.

Other small technical refinements included:

• Revised brake pipes

• New fuel sender assembly (October 1995)

• Updated automatic air-conditioning control module with redesigned buttons and a larger LCD display

The rise of designo

Mercedes also expanded its Designo program, opening the first consulting center at the Sindelfingen plant in late 1995, with more centers planned across Germany. This program allowed buyers to personalize their SLs with special leather combinations, carbon fiber trim, or unique finishes—similar to Porsche’s Exclusive program.

Conclusion

The 1995–1996 updates to the Mercedes-Benz SL showcased the brand’s strategy of blending technical refinement with increased standard equipment, while also offering high levels of personalization through AMG and Designo. These changes ensured that the R129 continued to set benchmarks in luxury, safety, and performance well into the mid-1990s.

Are you already a proud owner of a Mercedes R129? If so, check out our selection of parts for this car at the following link:

https://octoclassic.com/product-category/mercedes-benz/r129