Mercedes-Benz R230
Encyclopedia
Changes include new engines for SL 350 and SL 500, with improved performance on SL 55 AMG and SL 600, as well as a new top-of-the-line SL 65 AMG. ABC (Active Body Control) was improved to reduce body movements in dynamic driving by up to 60%.
Exterior styling changes include a new bumper with three large cooling air intakes and a more pronounced V-shape as well as fog lamps with chrome surrounds emphasise the power of the two-seater and give it a wider look, new light-alloy wheels, new rear light. Interior changes include softer leather upholstery, new interior colours, high-quality metal door sills with Mercedes-Benz lettering and embossed aluminium trim elements, removable luggage cover, optional remote boot-lid release.
The vehicle was unveiled in 2006 Geneva Motor Show. Production version began sale in 2006-03.
SL 500 was sold as SL 550 in North America.
Seal at bottom of rear window starts to leak. It can be stuck back with silicon sealant or replaced for $100 part - failure to catch this leak can cause serious and expensive failure of roof electronics and actuator in the bottom of the boot.
The facelifted 2008 SL model was revealed in the Geneva Motor Show in March. The 2008 SL gets a new, more aggressive front end reflecting Mercedes's new design philosophy, with a pair of long powerdomes on the bonnet and a single-bar grille replacing the old three-bar effort. Improvements have been made also on the engines. The 3.5L V6 is uprated to 311 PS at 6500 rpm. Compared to the previous 3.5-litre engine, the output has been boosted by 16 percent. Torque has also been improved adding 10 newton metre to the previous 350 newton metre making it 360 newton metre. this engine now can rev up to a max of 7200 rpm for a period as the oil temperature and other engine parameters permitting, a higher compression ratio, a new intake manifold and extensively modifying and lightening the valve train. In this case, however, the extra power does not come at the expense of fuel economy: with a consumption figure of 9.9 litres per 100 kilometres, the new SL 350 undercuts the previous model developing 200 kW by 0.4 litres per 100 kilometres. Mercedes-Benz is extending the SL-Class line-up by introducing an attractive entry-level model in the shape of the SL 280 developing 170 kW. The six cylinder powerplant delivers its peak torque of 300 newton metre from 2500 rpm and accelerates the roadster from 0 to 100 kilometre per hour in 7.8 seconds, whilst fuel consumption (NEDC
) is just 9.4 L/100 km. It will feature the AIRSCARF heating system used in the SLK.
in favour of the newer M156
6.2L V8 used in the S63 AMG, CLK63 AMG and C63 AMG. It produces 525 PS at 6800 rpm and 630 newton metre of torque at 5200 rpm. It can accelerate from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.6 seconds going up to a limited top speed of 250 kilometre per hour. The SL63 AMG also includes the new AMG-developed 7-speed MCT "Multi Clutch Technology" automatic transmission
.
The new MCT transmission is essentially the 7G-Tronic transmission without a torque converter. Instead of a torque converter, it uses a compact wet startup clutch to start the car off, and also supports computer-controlled double declutching. The MCT (Multi-Clutch Technology) acronym refers to a planetary (automatic) transmission’s multiple clutches and bands for each gear.
The MCT is fitted with four drive modes: “C” (Comfort), “S” (Sport), “S+” (Sport plus) and “M” (Manual) and boasts 100 millisecond shifts in "M" mode. The new car features the new AMG DRIVE UNIT with innovative Race Start function. The AMG DRIVE UNIT is the central control unit for the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission and all driving dynamics functions. The driver can change gears either using the new AMG selector lever with its leather/ carbon-fibre finish, or by nudging the AMG steering-wheel shift paddles. The new Race start Function is a launch control system which enables the SL 63 AMG driver to call on maximum acceleration, while ensuring optimum traction of the driven wheels. A modified version of the SL 63 is the safety car
for the 2008 Formula One season
.
The new SL65 AMG Black Series coupe features a carbon-fiber fixed roof, front fenders, hood, trunk lid, and front and rear aprons. With the absence of retractable roof hardware, the car is more than 550 pounds lighter than the standard SL. AMG placed a modified version of the 6.0-liter AMG V12 engine that now delivers 670 PS and 1000 newton metre of torque. This is the same 6.0L engine as used in the previous SL65 model with remapped timing and fuel curves to produce 58 PS more. Torque remains the same, as the previous model, due to transmission limitations. This engine has been labeled as the engine with the largest output that will be made by AMG. Its twin turbochargers are 12 percent larger, passages for intake air and the turbo wastegates have been modified, and the intake air intercooler is 30 percent more efficient. The result is 0-to-60 mph (97 km/h) acceleration of 3.8 seconds, and an electronically limited top speed of 198 mph (319 km/h).
The vehicle went on sale beginning in fall 2008, with deliveries began in November 2008.
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS five-speed automatic transmission include "C", "S", "M1" and "M2" which has gearshift times 25 percent quicker than the "M1" mode. Black Series front axle track width is 97 millimetres wider and the rear axle track width 85 millimetres wider over regular model.
Other changes include retractable rear spoiler and the rear apron with diffuser fins, 265/35R19 front tyres with 19x9.5 inch AMG light-alloy wheels and AMG 20x11.5-inch light-alloy wheels with 325/30R20 tyres (Dunlop Sport Maxx GT tyres), 6-piston front calipers with 390x36mm discs and 4-piston calipers with 360x26mm discs.
The vehicle was unveiled in Monterey in 2008.
Production vehicle began delivery in 2008-11.
The new model has only slight visual differentiators, the most noticeable is the three-slat grille rather than the four-slat version used previously. The top speed is limited to 155 mi/h, but can be extended to 186 mi/h for an additional cost. The 6.3 litre V8 replaced the current engine for the 2009 model year. Upon release in 2002 this was for its time the fastest automatic car in the world. This was before the SLR Mclaren hit the market in 2003–present. The news that the SL55 AMG will not be in production has upset thousands of car fans, including Top Gear presenters. Jeremy Clarkson owned one of the very first SL55 AMG's.
The SL65 AMG version offers 604 hp from its twin-turbocharged 6.0 litre, 5,980 cc V12 engine at 5500 rpm. It retailed for $179,720 as of 2005. Mercedes-Benz listed a 0-60 mph time of 4.2 seconds on their official website, though several road tests show that it actually takes under 4 seconds to reach 60 mi/h. Car and Driver achieved 60 mi/h from a standstill in 3.6 seconds, 100 mi/h in 7.5 seconds and recorded a Quarter Mile-time of 11.6 seconds at 123 mi/h.
Press kit:
Exterior styling changes include a new bumper with three large cooling air intakes and a more pronounced V-shape as well as fog lamps with chrome surrounds emphasise the power of the two-seater and give it a wider look, new light-alloy wheels, new rear light. Interior changes include softer leather upholstery, new interior colours, high-quality metal door sills with Mercedes-Benz lettering and embossed aluminium trim elements, removable luggage cover, optional remote boot-lid release.
The vehicle was unveiled in 2006 Geneva Motor Show. Production version began sale in 2006-03.
Engines
| Model | Years | Type/code | Power@rpm | Torque@rpm |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SL 350 | 2006–2008 | 3498 cc V6 (M272 Mercedes-Benz M272 engine The Mercedes-Benz M272 engine is a V6 automobile piston engine family used in the 2000s. Introduced in 2004, it is based on the M112 V6 introduced in 1998.... ) |
272 PS@6000 | 350 N·m (258.1 ft·lbf)@2400–5000 |
| SL 500, SL 550 | 2006–2008 | 5461 cc V8 (M273 Mercedes-Benz M273 engine The Mercedes-Benz M273 engine is a V8 automobile piston engine family used in the 2000s. It was based on the similar M272 V6 introduced in 2004.... ) |
388 PS@6000 | 530 N·m (390.9 ft·lbf)@2800–4800 |
| SL 55 AMG | 2006–2008 | 5439 cc V8 supercharged (M113 Mercedes-Benz M113 engine The Mercedes-Benz M113 engine is a V8 automobile piston engine family used in the 2000s. It was based on the similar M112 V6 introduced in 1998.... ) |
517 PS@6100 | 720 N·m (531 ft·lbf)@2600–4000 |
| SL 600 | 2006–2008 | 5513 cc V12 BiTurbo (M275 Mercedes-Benz M275 engine The Mercedes-Benz M275 engine is a twin-turbocharged and intercooled, all-aluminum, 60° V12 automobile piston engine family used in the 2000s... ) |
517 PS@5000 | 830 N·m (612.2 ft·lbf)@1900–3500 |
| SL 65 AMG | 2004– | 5980 cc V12 BiTurbo (M275 AMG Mercedes-Benz M275 engine The Mercedes-Benz M275 engine is a twin-turbocharged and intercooled, all-aluminum, 60° V12 automobile piston engine family used in the 2000s... ) |
612 PS@4800–5100 | 1000 N·m (737.6 ft·lbf)@2000–4000 |
SL 500 was sold as SL 550 in North America.
Transmissions
7G-TRONIC Sport option allows shifting to be performed up to 30% faster in manual "M" mode, and added steering-wheel shift paddles.Handling
ABC (Active Body Control) active suspension system is standard on SL 500 and SL 600, optional in SL 350.Common Faults
In early models a piece of metal can fall off in fuel tank causing clanking - tank has to be removed and replaced -Seal at bottom of rear window starts to leak. It can be stuck back with silicon sealant or replaced for $100 part - failure to catch this leak can cause serious and expensive failure of roof electronics and actuator in the bottom of the boot.
2008 Facelift
NEDC
NEDC may refer to:*National Economic Development Council, a British economic planning body*New European Driving Cycle...
) is just 9.4 L/100 km. It will feature the AIRSCARF heating system used in the SLK.
AMG
The facelifted SL loses AMG's 5.4L M113Mercedes-Benz M113 engine
The Mercedes-Benz M113 engine is a V8 automobile piston engine family used in the 2000s. It was based on the similar M112 V6 introduced in 1998....
in favour of the newer M156
Mercedes-Benz M156 engine
The M156 is the first V8 automobile engine designed autonomously by Mercedes-Benz subsidiary Mercedes-AMG, as previous AMG engines have always been based on original Mercedes engines...
6.2L V8 used in the S63 AMG, CLK63 AMG and C63 AMG. It produces 525 PS at 6800 rpm and 630 newton metre of torque at 5200 rpm. It can accelerate from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.6 seconds going up to a limited top speed of 250 kilometre per hour. The SL63 AMG also includes the new AMG-developed 7-speed MCT "Multi Clutch Technology" automatic transmission
Automatic transmission
An automatic transmission is one type of motor vehicle transmission that can automatically change gear ratios as the vehicle moves, freeing the driver from having to shift gears manually...
.
The new MCT transmission is essentially the 7G-Tronic transmission without a torque converter. Instead of a torque converter, it uses a compact wet startup clutch to start the car off, and also supports computer-controlled double declutching. The MCT (Multi-Clutch Technology) acronym refers to a planetary (automatic) transmission’s multiple clutches and bands for each gear.
The MCT is fitted with four drive modes: “C” (Comfort), “S” (Sport), “S+” (Sport plus) and “M” (Manual) and boasts 100 millisecond shifts in "M" mode. The new car features the new AMG DRIVE UNIT with innovative Race Start function. The AMG DRIVE UNIT is the central control unit for the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission and all driving dynamics functions. The driver can change gears either using the new AMG selector lever with its leather/ carbon-fibre finish, or by nudging the AMG steering-wheel shift paddles. The new Race start Function is a launch control system which enables the SL 63 AMG driver to call on maximum acceleration, while ensuring optimum traction of the driven wheels. A modified version of the SL 63 is the safety car
Safety car
In motorsport, a safety car or pace car is a car which limits the speed of competing cars on a racetrack in the case of a caution period such as an obstruction on the track. During a caution period the safety car enters the track ahead of the leader...
for the 2008 Formula One season
2008 Formula One season
The 2008 Formula One season was the 59th FIA Formula One World Championship season. It began on 16 March and ended on 2 November with eighteen Grand Prix races....
.
The new SL65 AMG Black Series coupe features a carbon-fiber fixed roof, front fenders, hood, trunk lid, and front and rear aprons. With the absence of retractable roof hardware, the car is more than 550 pounds lighter than the standard SL. AMG placed a modified version of the 6.0-liter AMG V12 engine that now delivers 670 PS and 1000 newton metre of torque. This is the same 6.0L engine as used in the previous SL65 model with remapped timing and fuel curves to produce 58 PS more. Torque remains the same, as the previous model, due to transmission limitations. This engine has been labeled as the engine with the largest output that will be made by AMG. Its twin turbochargers are 12 percent larger, passages for intake air and the turbo wastegates have been modified, and the intake air intercooler is 30 percent more efficient. The result is 0-to-60 mph (97 km/h) acceleration of 3.8 seconds, and an electronically limited top speed of 198 mph (319 km/h).
SL 63 AMG Edition IWC (2008-)
It is a limited (200 units) version of SL 63 AMG. It included designo magno Kashmir white finish, AMG Exterior Carbon package with matte surface, interior Carbon matte trim with Tobago Brown nappa leather upholstery, AMG Performance package, 'Grosse Ingenieur' (Big Engineer) watch from Swiss watchmaker IWC Schaffhausen.The vehicle went on sale beginning in fall 2008, with deliveries began in November 2008.
SL 65 AMG Black Series (2008-)
It is a performance version of the SL 65 AMG. The turbochargers were 12% larger, and the optimised wastegate ducts permit increased air throughput. Intake air ducting and exhaust system were modified to improve response and reduce the exhaust gas backpressure. Vehicle was 250 kilograms (551.2 lb) lighter than regular SL 65 AMG by the use of light carbon fibre composites (CFRP) parts. Another big item on weight reduction was removing the foldable hardtop roof, replacing it with a fixed roof. Not only did this save much weight, it also made room available for the retractable rear spoiler.The AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS five-speed automatic transmission include "C", "S", "M1" and "M2" which has gearshift times 25 percent quicker than the "M1" mode. Black Series front axle track width is 97 millimetres wider and the rear axle track width 85 millimetres wider over regular model.
Other changes include retractable rear spoiler and the rear apron with diffuser fins, 265/35R19 front tyres with 19x9.5 inch AMG light-alloy wheels and AMG 20x11.5-inch light-alloy wheels with 325/30R20 tyres (Dunlop Sport Maxx GT tyres), 6-piston front calipers with 390x36mm discs and 4-piston calipers with 360x26mm discs.
The vehicle was unveiled in Monterey in 2008.
Production vehicle began delivery in 2008-11.
Engines
| Model | Years | Type/code | Power@rpm | Torque@rpm |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SL 280 | 2008–2009 | 2996 cc V6 (M272 Mercedes-Benz M272 engine The Mercedes-Benz M272 engine is a V6 automobile piston engine family used in the 2000s. Introduced in 2004, it is based on the M112 V6 introduced in 1998.... ) |
231 PS@6000 | 300 N·m (221.3 ft·lbf)@2500-5000 |
| SL 300 | 2009- | 2996 cc V6 (M272 Mercedes-Benz M272 engine The Mercedes-Benz M272 engine is a V6 automobile piston engine family used in the 2000s. Introduced in 2004, it is based on the M112 V6 introduced in 1998.... ) |
231 PS@6000 | 300 N·m (221.3 ft·lbf)@2500-5000 |
| SL 350 | 2008- | 3498 cc V6 (M272 Mercedes-Benz M272 engine The Mercedes-Benz M272 engine is a V6 automobile piston engine family used in the 2000s. Introduced in 2004, it is based on the M112 V6 introduced in 1998.... ) |
316 PS@6500 | 360 N·m (265.5 ft·lbf)@6500 |
| SL 500, SL 550 | 2006- | 5461 cc V8 (M273 Mercedes-Benz M273 engine The Mercedes-Benz M273 engine is a V8 automobile piston engine family used in the 2000s. It was based on the similar M272 V6 introduced in 2004.... ) |
388 PS@6000 | 530 N·m (390.9 ft·lbf)@2800-4800 |
| SL 63 AMG | 2008- | 6208 cc V8 (M156.984 Mercedes-Benz M156 engine The M156 is the first V8 automobile engine designed autonomously by Mercedes-Benz subsidiary Mercedes-AMG, as previous AMG engines have always been based on original Mercedes engines... ) |
525 PS@6800 | 630 N·m (464.7 ft·lbf)@5250 |
| SL 600 | 2006-2009 | 5513 cc V12 BiTurbo (M275 Mercedes-Benz M275 engine The Mercedes-Benz M275 engine is a twin-turbocharged and intercooled, all-aluminum, 60° V12 automobile piston engine family used in the 2000s... ) |
517 PS@5000 | 830 N·m (612.2 ft·lbf)@1900-3500 |
| SL 65 AMG | 2004- | 5980 cc V12 BiTurbo (M275 AMG Mercedes-Benz M275 engine The Mercedes-Benz M275 engine is a twin-turbocharged and intercooled, all-aluminum, 60° V12 automobile piston engine family used in the 2000s... ) |
612 PS@4800-5100 | 1000 N·m (737.6 ft·lbf)@2000-4000 |
| SL 65 AMG Black Series | 2008- | 5980 cc V12 BiTurbo (M275 AMG Mercedes-Benz M275 engine The Mercedes-Benz M275 engine is a twin-turbocharged and intercooled, all-aluminum, 60° V12 automobile piston engine family used in the 2000s... ) |
670 PS@5400 | 1000 N·m (737.6 ft·lbf)@2200-4200 |
Transmissions
SL 63 AMG includes AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission, which included 'C' (Comfort), 'S' (Sport), 'S+' (Sport plus) and 'M' (Manual) modes, AMG DRIVE UNIT, Race Start launch control.SL500
In 2007, Mercedes created a 75 limited-edition 50th Anniversary SL550s. According to another article, Mercedes created 550 of these cars, all pewter in colour with burgundy leather, black ash wood trim, 18-inch double five-spoked wheels, and matching 50th Anniversary Edition luggage.SL600
The SL600 is the highest-output version of the non-AMG SL-Class models. It uses a V12 engine which produced 493 hp and 590 ft.lbf from 2003 through 2006 and was uprated to 510 hp and 612 ft.lbf for 2007. It accelerates from 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds, according to Mercedes-Benz. However Car and Driver achieved extremely impressive acceleration test figures with 60 mi/h achieved in just 3.6 seconds, 100 mi/h in 8.6 seconds and a Quarter Mile run in 11.9 seconds at 120 mi/h. The article can be subject to argument that the car's performance was tested after several modifications were made to the vehicle itself, hence the impressive 0-60 timing.SL55 AMG
The SL55 AMG version was released in 2002.The new model has only slight visual differentiators, the most noticeable is the three-slat grille rather than the four-slat version used previously. The top speed is limited to 155 mi/h, but can be extended to 186 mi/h for an additional cost. The 6.3 litre V8 replaced the current engine for the 2009 model year. Upon release in 2002 this was for its time the fastest automatic car in the world. This was before the SLR Mclaren hit the market in 2003–present. The news that the SL55 AMG will not be in production has upset thousands of car fans, including Top Gear presenters. Jeremy Clarkson owned one of the very first SL55 AMG's.
SL65 AMG
External links
Press kit: