The Mercedes-Benz 500 SL is based on a 1989-1995 Mercedes-Benz R 129 (sold as 500 SL). The "R" stands for "roadster". Although Mattel aquired Corgi in 1989, models never mixed until 1996 when there were several corgi casting found in the Hot Wheels line-up. This was quite short lived though. Although similar in appearence to Mercedes-Benz SL, this model is a former Corgi casting, and they are in fact 2 different cars.