Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
Developed as a racecar, coveted as a sports car, the SL-Class has always been, above all, a dream car.
Design
When the world saw the first SL-Class in 1954, its lightweight, aerodynamic body did more than set a new standard. It served proof that icons are born from lasting brilliance. Today, the advanced engineering and timeless proportions of the SL-Class convey the thrill of acceleration, the acceleration of progress, and the enduring soul of a sports car.
The signature of the SL-Class is its folding aluminum roof. With the touch of a button on its console or SmartKey remote, the SL-Class converts from hardtop coupe to sunny roadster in 16 seconds. An optional Panorama roof lets you enjoy the sun and stars through a heat-reflecting tinted glass panel.
Muscular lower bodywork leads both the eye and the wind around the SL-Class' perfectly proportioned physique. A deep front air dam with mesh grilles flows into chiseled side sills and a sculpted rear valance. Dual polished chrome exhaust tips provide a brilliant finish and a reminder of the power within.
The optional Wheel Package amplifies the SL550's race-bred style and substance. Massive 19-inch AMG 5-spoke wheels set off perforated rear brake discs and Silver-painted front brake calipers. Dark-tinted headlamps and taillamps complete the look, while inside, a sport steering wheel with paddle shifters and a Manual shift mode sharpen its performance edge.
Active cruise control is optional on all Mercedes SL-Class models.
Powertrain and Performance
Dual trapezoidal exhaust tips resonate a mellow rumble as its 382-hp 5.5-liter V-8 launches the SL550 to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds. With a dual-length intake manifold and variable timing of its 32 valves, it generates a 391-lb-ft crescendo of torque over a wide range of rpm. The engine´s rigid yet light diecast-alloy block contributes to the SL550´s ideal front-to-rear weight distribution.
Quite possibly the most advanced, fully active suspension in production, Active Body Control (ABC) adapts instantly to driving conditions for crisp cornering with silky comfort. It also automatically lowers the car as speed rises, and offers a driver-selectable Sport mode.
Pioneered by the SL-Class, the Direct-steer system varies the steering ratio based on how far you turn the wheel. The result is quicker response in tight corners, precise on-center feel, inspiring straight-line stability, and easier effort at low speeds.
With perforated front discs and generously sized hardware, the SL-Class sheds speed with confidence. It also brakes with greater intelligence. Lift off the accelerator quickly and Predictive Brake Priming sets the pads closer to the discs, for more immediate response when you hit the brakes. In the rain, Automatic Brake Drying gently applies the brakes periodically, to sweep away water build-up.
Safety
The SL-Class is a Mercedes-Benz, so pioneering innovations in safety is a part of its heritage. It was among the first sports cars equipped with an Air bag (it provides five of them today), ABS and ESP®. And in 1989 it was the first roadster to feature a Pop-up roll bar that deploys in a fraction of a second when sensors detect an impending rollover.
Interior Design
The SL-Class unites its two passengers in a sporty, elegant cabin that simultaneously lets the driver and car enjoy their own special connection. Twin heated and Active Ventilated seats, an abundance of top-stitched leather and polished wood, and advanced Audio and Navigation set your spirit free to take on the world, or leave it all behind.
Advanced technology keeps you connected to the world around you. Navigation features a fast 40GB hard drive, Enhanced Voice Control that responds to your normal way of speaking, and built-in Zagat® Survey ratings. Live SiriusXM Traffic can help you avoid a jam. And a Bluetooth interface offers hands-free calling convenience.
A 10-speaker harman/kardon LOGIC7® system outputs 510 watts of Dolby® Digital 5.1 surround sound.Your listening choices are virtually limitless: a 6-DVD/CD changer, HD Radio™ stations, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, iPod® integration, a memory card reader, and a 4GB in-dash Music Register for storing your digital music.
In addition to heated seats, two innovative climate-controlling features are standard. Active Ventilated seats circulate cooling air through perforations in the leather. And the innovative AIRSCARF neck-level heating system can deliver warmed air from the head restraints, so you can enjoy top-down driving further into a cool evening or the change of seasons.
From your car, online or via the mbrace Mobile Application on your iPhone®, mbrace® helps keep you connected with nearly 20 different security, destination planning and convenience services. Combining advanced technology with 24-hour support from helpful experts, two available service packages can help you plan a trip, remember where you parked, or even handle an unexpected emergency.