Mercedes Benz SL Class

Overview: Is the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class a Good Car?

Mercedes-Benz created the luxury sports car segment by blending prestige, performance, and open-air thrills when it unveiled its iconic 300SL roadster and SL Gullwing in 1954. Now in its seventh decade of production, the iconic profile continues to serve as the brand’s flagship two-door. Since the R230 generation’s 2003 launch, the refined V8-powered SL Class has catered to successful buyers wanting substance alongside their style. Subsequent editions include the R231 (2012-2020) and R232 (2022-Current) generations. Available AMG variants (which are the only R232 versions available in the U.S.) add further performance to match the six-figure price tags. Even as its sales heyday has passed, the Mercedes-Benz SL carries the torch first lit by its 1950s ancestors. With a lightweight chassis and seating for two, this exotic “Super Light” model makes for a compelling used cabriolet (convertible) for the well-heeled set.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Mercedes-Benz SL-Class cars for sale.

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Related: The Best Year For The Mercedes 450SL

Key Features

The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class offers:

• Iconic two-seat convertible body style (with retractable hardtop or soft top, depending on the year)
• V6, V8, or V12 engines
• Automatic transmission
• Rear-wheel drive or 4Matic all-wheel drive

Trims

Over the last three generations, there’s an extensive array of trims and variants. These badges include SL280, SL300, SL350, SL400, SL450, SL500, SL550, and SL600. Performance editions include the SL43, SL55 AMG, SL63 AMG, SL65 AMG, and SL65 AMG Black Series

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

No expense is spared in outfitting the SL cabin with premium touches. Active multi-contour seats, Airscarf neck warmers, ambient interior lighting, and more keep newer editions cutting edge. The latest MBUX tech includes a 12.3-inch OLED central touchscreen display with augmented reality navigation plus voice commands. Cargo capacity is an afterthought with the SL Class; it’s fine for a few suitcases or groceries and not much else.

How It Drives

Powerful engines ranging from a 362 hp turbocharged six-cylinder to ferocious 621 hp twin-turbo V12 models enable effortless acceleration. V8 engines sitting in the middle provide satisfying performance, too. Adaptive dampers offer a supple ride, while the available rear wheel steering system allows the big roadster to shrink around tighter corners.

Safety

As is typical with high-end, limited-production vehicles, the Mercedes Benz SL Class has not undergone testing by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Reviews

Mercedes-Benz SL Class reviews are overwhelmingly positive. According to Kelley Blue Book, owners give the fifth (R230) and sixth (R231) generations an average of 4.6 out of 5. The highest-ranked characteristics include styling, performance, and reliability. There’s no word yet on the SL AMG editions of the seventh (R232) generation.

Learn More: Are Mercedes Good Cars? Everything You Need To Know

FAQs

How much is the Mercedes SL-Class?

Mercedes Benz SL Class prices vary significantly. The “entry-level” 2023 AMG SL43 has an MSRP of $109,900, soaring to $183,000 for an AMG SL65. According to recent nationwide listings from CoPilot, used Mercedes-Benz SL Class examples range from $12,000 to $85,000.

What is the Mercedes SL-Class?

This model represents Mercedes’ flagship two-seat luxury convertibles, which have been produced for seven decades and blend performance, prestige, and open-air thrills for wealthy new car buyers. Used Mercedes Benz SL Class for sale examples are more accessible.

Is Mercedes SL a luxury car?

Most certainly, these low-volume Mercedes models cater to an elite clientele wanting a stylish and fast luxury roadster for weekend getaways, evening cruises, or first-classing commuting.

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