2001 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class: Road Test
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2001 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class ▼
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- MSRP: $83,800 -$128,950
- Invoice: $77,934 -$119,924
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Our road test for the 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class includes a full evaluation of the 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class help you decide if a 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| SL500 | SL600 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 8 | 7.7 |
Big power offsets 2-ton-plus curb weights, for a 0-60-mph time of around 6.0 sec. for both models. Engines and transmission work in pleasing harmony.
FUEL ECONOMY
| SL500 | SL600 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 2 | 4.7 |
Expect to average around 15 mpg in the V8 model, just 13 or so in the V12. Both require premium fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| SL500 | SL600 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 3.5 |
Ever firm but comfortable for short-wheelbase cars, though things can turn jiggly on rough pavement.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| SL500 | SL600 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 7.8 |
Too bulky to be genuine sports cars, but SLs power quickly and safely through corners without much body lean, aided by standard antiskid system.
QUIETNESS
| SL500 | SL600 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 3.6 |
Engines muted even in hard driving, but some wind rush intrudes even with the standard aluminum hardtop attached, and tire roar can annoy on coarse surfaces. Cloth top seals well.
CONTROLS
| SL500 | SL600 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.2 |
Some control icons aren't obvious, but no major flaws. Soft top powers up and down with one-button ease. SLs are beautifully built and feel substantial, but have more body shake over bumps than we think right for cars this costly.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| SL500 | SL600 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 5 |
Spacious for those short of NBA height. Myriad adjustments for firm but comfortable seats. Driver benefits from power tilt/telescope steering wheel linked with mirror and seat positions. Low body build hampers entry/exit a bit. Visibility good with either top in place.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| SL500 | SL600 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0 | .7 |
(No rear seating.)
CARGO ROOM
| SL500 | SL600 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 2.1 |
Limited but adequate for two, and it doesn't change when the soft top is lowered. No way to take along the heavy hardtop, which takes two to remove or install.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| SL500 | SL600 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 4 |
Open-air allure meets big-Mercedes comfort, safety, dynamic ability, and cachet. Frightening prices, but resale values hold up like ancient oaks.
Total Score
| SL500 | SL600 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 46 | 45 | 44.3 |
Total Score: 46
Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars
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