ConvertibleMercedes-Benz96% by Neofiliac Team

Mercedes-Benz SL R230

Convertible

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Product Overview

Mercedes-Benz SL R230 is a flagship mid-size luxury convertible in production from 2001 to 2006, whereupon it received a facelift. It was available with a range of V6, V8, and V12 engines that displaced 3.7 to 6.0 liters.

The most luxurious hardtop convertible in the industry throughout its production run, the R230 SL-Class boasts an exceptionally elegant, ageless styling. It incorporated the best engineering achievements from Mercedes and was a superb car with its V8 and V12 engines.

The base SL350 was only sold in select markets. Other vehicles used ABC active hydraulic suspensions that have proven troublesome. Otherwise, the car is extremely reliable for a European car. Its M113 V8 and M275 V12 are both stellar in terms of durability, and their SOHC designs mean that they don't have a lot of the maintenance items on more complex engines. The 5G-Tronic automatic transmission is arguably the most robust gearbox from Germany ever, too.

Mercedes-Benz has made a good effort in aerodynamics, with a decent 0.28 coefficient of drag to show for it.

Drivers who appreciate handling will be pleased to know that the Mercedes-Benz SL comes with multi-link suspensions at all four corners. This provides the best cornering performance and tunability, at the expense of cost and a little bit of durability.

Ratings

What we found

Neofiliac score 96%

Pros

Superb V8 and V12 engine lineup
Elegant yet athletic styling
Good 0.28 drag coefficient

Cons

Bad electronics inside
ABC suspension problems
Unbefitting V6 offered

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Specifications

Variants shown:

SL 55 AMG

SL 65 AMG

SL 350 MT

SL 350

SL 500

SL 600

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