2013 Mercedes-Benz SL

Reviewers and test drivers were enthusiastic about the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL. When it came to performance, luxury, comfort and handling, they claimed that very few cars can match this super luxury sports car.

Even though it’s a powerful car, the SL is agile enough to give a driver a good time navigating twisty roads. The SL is for someone who yearns for a dynamic, lively, thrilling-to-drive Mercedes-Benz.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Convertible Base Price: $105,500.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 19.8 gallons (75 l) MPG: 16 city / 24 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 181.8 in. (460.0 cm) Wheel Base: 101.8 in. (258.5 cm)
Height: 51.8 in. (131.5 cm) Width: 73.9 in. (187.7 cm)
Curb Weight: 3935 lbs (1785 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 13.5 cu ft Maximum Seating: 2 people
Performance
Engine: 5.5L DOHC V8 Compression Ratio: 10.5: 1
Horsepower: 429 HP Max RPM: 5250 RPM
Torque: 516 lb-ft @ 1800-3500 rpm Transmission: 7-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 4.5 seconds Maximum Speed: NA
Available Trims & Engine
Option:SL63 AMG Roadster 530 HP MSRP: $145,800; MPG: 12 city / 19 hwy

Engine & Performance

The Mercedes-Benz SL boasts a 4.6 liter twin turbo V8 engine that will give the driver a walloping 429 horsepower at 5250 rpm The amount of torque is 516 lbs -ft and ranges from 1800 to 3500 rpm, which allows the car to jump from 0 to 60 miles per hour in about four and a half seconds.

This mighty engine is married to a seven speed automatic transmission that has paddle shifters, yet reviewers claim that the transmission is smooth. When it comes to fuel economy, the SL gets 16 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, which is an improvement over the old model. The car also comes with a stop-start mechanism that helps conserve fuel, but some reviewers found it annoying to have to press a button to restart the engine every time they stopped at a red light.

Test drives proved that the SL’s performance, provided a smooth, powerful, comfortable and agile driving experence.

Exterior

Despite everything else, many reviewers found the exterior of the SL a bit clunky, though it’s other attributes more than made up for it. People also liked the retractable hardtop roof, with a Magic Sky Control option. This technology allows the driver to control how much sunlight is allowed into the cabin.

Interior

On top of its performance, the SL gets the highest marks for its über-luxurious interior. The COMAND infotainment system is state of the art, while the drive is impressively quiet. The seats support the body in comfort. They’re also power adjustable and heated. The driver can choose many options that make the seats even more comfortable.

You can opt for the Airscarf heating system, where a vent installed under the headrest keeps the neck warm. This allows drivers to zip along even with the top down in the winter and be comfortable. The new Mercedes-Benz SL has a surprisingly large amount of cargo space. The trunk offers 13.5 cubic feet and all a driver has to do is wave their foot under the back bumper to open and close it. Test drivers seemed to be especially impressed by this feature.

Safety

The SL hasn’t been tested by either the federal government or the car safety industry, but it does come with a plethora of safety features, such as driver and passenger air bags, 4 wheel ABS, brake assist, daytime running lights, rollover protection, and traction control.

Reliability

The SL has also not been rated for reliability, but it does have a four year, 50,000 mile warranty, with roadside assistance available throughout the life of the warranty. Roadside assistance can be extended after the warranty expires if the car’s been regularly maintenance at a Mercedes dealership.

Pros

People admired its comfortable and quiet but exciting ride, along with its powerful engine and opulent interior.

Cons

Some found the SL as not the sexiest car when it comes to exterior looks and the feel of the steering might be a bit mushy.

Roadsters, according Merriam-Webster, is “an automobile with an open body that seats two…” The SL class from Mercedes Benz is part of that select group. Other vehicles worthy of the description of roadster and comparison to the SL are the Aston Martin Vantage (MSRP $131,170; 13 city / 19 hwy), the BMW M6 (MSRP $113,100; NA city / NA hwy), and the Maserati GranTurismo (MSRP $137,300; 13 city / 20 hwy).

Overall Rating
72 out of 100

What others say:

“More massive in appearance but lighter in curb weight, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL 550 has grown longer and wider, reaffirming its mission as the “S Class of sporty cars.””Car Connection

“At least in 550 form, SL lacks the razor-sharp response of a 911, but that’s not really its primary mission. Even without the optional Active Body Control suspension, the SL is neutral in fast changes of direction. Steering feel is fine for everyday driving, but road feel is a bit lacking when you push it.”Consumer Guide

“The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is redesigned, with a more rigid aluminum-unit body, a new engine, updated technology in the roadster’s interior and an upgraded version of its retractable hardtop.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Effortless performance, proper luxury and trend-setting technology make the new 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class as iconic as its predecessors.”Edmunds

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