The
early SL500 with 300mm front calipers used serviceable control arms with replaceable ball joints. Later SL500 with either 320mm or 334mm front calipers did NOT use these control arms. And, the control arm is not wider. Both versions of the LCA are identical dimensions, only the shape of the outer ball joint area is different to provide clearance for the deeper rotors used with the larger brakes. Detailed photos are
here.
The knuckle also has the same dimensions compared to the 400E/500E. They are the identical part number for all R129, and 124.034/.036.
The only difference vs 4/5/6-cyl 124 is the bearings are larger on the R129 (and W124 V8) knuckle.
There were 3 different front brake caliper sizes offered during 500SL/SL500 production. The larger brakes require the late-style LCA's with non-replaceable ball joints. The rotor will touch the early style LCA.
The early SL320 (without optional ESP) has the early LCA's with replaceable ball joints... and yes, this will contact the 400E rotor. You will have the same exact issue with the SL500 control arms. Keep the 400E control arms, they are the late style. If the ball joint is tight, replace the boot and add some fresh grease (details
here).