Mercedes Benz SL500 1996
Sold and Exported
Many enthusiasts agree that the 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL500 convertible with 5-liter V-8 engine and five-speed automatic transmission is one of the best of the breed. Now you can import one from Japan in impeccable condition at a reasonable price.
The 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL500 has an aura of success that makes any driver look like a million bucks. Whether you remove the top or not, it’s a beautiful car to behold and a great pleasure to drive — as we discovered at Japan Car Direct.
Appealing inside and out
Every detail of the exterior is attractively refined. The 1996 SL500 comes with an easy-to remove body-colored aluminum hardtop as well as a black soft top that smoothly rises or retracts into a compartment behind the seats with the press of a button. You can choose one or the other depending on your mood, or soak up some rays while driving with the top off.
Inside, the 1996 SL500 is roomy and luxurious with supportive leather bucket seats, burled walnut trim, and amenities ranging from power seats to remote keyless entry. Safety is enhanced by front and side airbags, anti-lock brakes and a roll bar behind the rear seats that automatically rises if the vehicle starts to roll.
Smooth and powerful 5.0-liter V-8 engine
The 5.0-liter V-8 engine (M119) smoothly delivers power without hesitation. Boasting four valves per cylinder, twin overhead camshafts and variable intake valve timing, it accelerates the vehicle from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.4 seconds, which is mighty fast for a luxury car. Top vehicle speed surpasses 150 mph (241 kph), maximum horsepower is 320 PS (235 kW; 316 bhp) @ 5700 rpm, and maximum torque is 345 lb-ft (468 Nm) @ 3900 rpm.
High-performance 5-speed automatic transmission
The engine is paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission that downshifts without hesitation, provides a genuine overdrive for better fuel efficiency (15 mpg in the city, 22 mpg on highways) and intelligently varies shift timing depending on the situation to support spirited driving — especially if you put the mode selector in the “S” position.
Sports car handling and a smooth ride
Handling is sporty and accurate, allowing you to confidently navigate serpentine streets at high speed. Yet the ride is smooth and comfortable, thanks to an innovative suspension with stabilizers, electronically controlled damping and refined geometry. A limited slip differential enhances traction around corners and 4-wheel disc brakes help you stay in control.
Import from Japan — with help from Japan Car Direct
This silver 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL500 was obviously well cared for, like this Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG and 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL500 (R230) we handled awhile back. When you’re ready to take advantage of the wide selection and low prices at used car auctions in Japan, contact Japan Car Direct. We look forward to hearing from you.
