1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 500 review from UK and Ireland

Initial gearbox fault. Cleared the fault codes and has been fine ever since.

A deceptive car, at first you think it's going to be a cruiser for boulevards and the south of France; a bit of posing pouch.

However, after you get to know the car, you find out it really handles like a sports car (albeit a large one.

Motoring with the hood down is one of the more pleasurable experiences in life, and one that I have grown increasingly addicted to.

The 5.0 V8 is an excellent engine and perfectly matched to the SL. Don't be swayed into buying a 320, the car is too heavy for the engine and fuel economy is about the same as the 500. Ignore the 6.0 V12 as it is nose heavy, and if driven with gusto, has an enormous appetite for fuel.

My only criticism of the car is the brakes, they offer very little in way of feel and require quite a shove sometimes to get good stopping power.

I must admit to owning several Mercedes, all of a similar age ,and the cars built in and around the mid 90's are built to such an incredible standard, nothing ever squeaks, rattles or shakes; the ride comfort for an open car is exceptional.

If you are looking to purchase a roadster on a budget, don't look any further; these cars represent the height of Mercedes build quality, and are fitted with some of the finest engines ever made.