2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Roadster
June 26, 2008 by George Skentzos
Mercedes-Benz has launched its new-generation SL-Class Roadster here in Australia, continuing its legacy as the world’s most successful premium roadster in its class.
Since the introduction of the iconic 300 SL ‘Gullwing’ in 1954, Mercedes has produced over 630,000 SL sports cars at its Stuttgart plant.
There are five models in the new SL-Class range, including two AMG models with prices starting from $223,000.
The entry-level SL 350 is powered by a newly developed 3.5-litre V6 engine delivering 232kW at 6500rpm and peak torque of 360Nm, with fuel consumption a modest 9.9L/100km.
The V8-powered SL 500 develops peak power of 285kW and 360Nm, covering the sprint from zero to 100km/h in just 5.4 seconds.
The SL 600 however receives top billing for the Mercedes range, powered by a bi-turbo V12 engine which develops 380kW and an enormous 830Nm – 0 to 100km/h is done with in just 4.5 seconds.
Standard for the SL-Class range is a seven-speed automatic transmission, offering a new double-declutching function that is activated during manual downshifts.
The first of two AMG models on offer is the SL 63, powered by the same 6.3-litre 386kW V8-engine from the C 63 AMG saloon.
Finally, the performance flagship for the SL-Class is the SL 65 AMG, a bi-turbo V12-powered goliath producing 450kW and an electronically-limited 1000Nm for blisteringly quick 0-100km/h performance of just 4.2 seconds.
The new SL-Class extends its safety credentials courtesy of Electronic Stability Programme ESP, bi-xenon headlamps and extensive airbag technology for both occupants.
A new standard for the SL range is the AIRSCARF neck-level heating, providing comforting warmth when driving with the roof down.
Interior refinements also include a new-look instrument cluster, three-spoke sports leather steering wheel and the standard-fit COMAND multimedia system, which has also been fully revamped with a host of additional functions.
Pricing
| Model | Power | Torque | 0-100km/h | Price* |
| SL 350 | 232 kw | 360 Nm | 6.2 seconds | $223,000 (+$4,000) |
| SL 500 | 285 kW | 530 Nm | 5.4 seconds | $306,000 (+$4,000) |
| SL 600 | 380 kW | 830 Nm | 4.5 seconds | $385,000 (+$8,000) |
| SL 63 AMG | 386 kw | 630 Nm | 4.6 seconds | $382,000 (+$5,000) |
| SL 65 AMG | 450 kW | 1000 Nm | 4.2 seconds | $468,000 (+$8,000) |
Print it: 
I sure hope you get a ton of stuff than just a big engine if you opt for for SL 65 AMG over the base model.
SL Mercs come pretty highly specced, even in base form, and I don’t think the AMG motor costs $245,000 alone… where does it all go. Other than into the F1 engine development program.
A superb looking vehicle built for speed and comfort, no doubt. But if you do happen to run the car at track day day or two, just pray that you don’t come up against a Lotus Exige S 240 down the straight or worse still, through the corners. I should add, that the guy with the Lotus will have written a cheque for just under $150K and that includes a USB iPod connector!
whats the difference between twin turbo and biturbo?
Very nice, but given a choice between the 65 AMG and an Aston Martin DBS for much the same money, I’d go the Aston hands down.
Er, doesn’t the SL600 make the SL63 kind of redundant? Let’s see – it has more power, heaps more torque, and costs only $3,000 more. Sure, it’s not an AMG, but I still think the SL63 is an unnecessary part of the range.
Mitch,
Mate BiTurbo over twin turbo… nothing different, where any diference lies is whether the turbos are operating parallel, in that say a V6 has a turbo per bank, or sequential, where one turbo operates at certain revs and the other sometimes in conjunction runs at higher revs.
The Black one looks so sweet and Tuff!!! that one of the best looking Mercs i have seen!!!! and Very powerful!!!
The SL600 appears on the surface too make the SL63AMG redundant. In reality however they are completely different in nature and each offers it’s own take on a performance SL. The SL600 is a torquemeister which obviously has it by the truckload and like alot of V12’s does not need to rev to deliver the goods. The sound is too subdued though going by the reviews I have read around the world. The SL63 on the other hand is a real revver over 7200 max and has a glorious sound. Only a AM V8 Vantage sounds better than AMG’s 6.2L V8 in my opinion! I still think the ole 5.4 supercharged is the best sounding V8 ever (even better than the AM) but the 6.2L V8 is very close behind!
What, no mention of the brand new double clutch sequential gearbox? “Automatic with double de-clutching” just isn’t the same thing. Bit lacking in substance this review… nice pics tho…
My favourite car.