2004 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class: Road Test
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2004 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class ▼
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- MSRP: $88,800 -$126,250
- Invoice: $82,584 -$117,413
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Our road test for the 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class includes a full evaluation of the 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class help you decide if a 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| SL500 | SL600 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 10 | 7.7 |
SL500 no dragster off the line but gathers speed rapidly and shows true authority above 40 mph. Test SL500 did 6.5 sec 0-60 mph. Mercedes estimates SL55 and SL600 at 4.5 sec 0-60. Test SL600's strong acceleration both from a standstill and in highway passing supports that claim. No opportunity yet to test SL65; Mercedes pegs it at 4.2 sec 0-60.
FUEL ECONOMY
| SL500 | SL600 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 4.7 |
Test SL500 averaged 19.5 mpg in mostly highway driving; expect less overall. No opportunity to measure with other models. All SLs require premium-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| SL500 | SL600 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4 |
Fine blend of firm control and astute bump absorption, though more jarring than expected on really rough pavement. Even top down, impressively solid SL holds quivers to a minimum.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| SL500 | SL600 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8.4 |
Great balance in turns, with natural steering feel, good grip. Impressive high-speed stability; 75 mph feels like 40 mph. Simulated panic stops produced shorter-than-average distances. But brake-by-wire furnishes inconsistent deceleration at town speed, excessive initial pedal travel from higher speed.
QUIETNESS
| SL500 | SL600 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4 |
Top-up, as quiet as most any luxury coupe, with little wind noise, almost no tire roar. Top-down wind rush well-managed. V8's rich purr evident only during rapid acceleration.
CONTROLS
| SL500 | SL600 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 5.8 |
Sporty, sophisticated dashboard, though central coves fail to shield speedometer and tachometer from daytime glare for some testers. Many buttons and switches, though all are easy to reach. Navigation system incorporates some audio and climate functions, and most adjustments require multiple inputs. Pop-out cupholders obscure navigation screen and nearby climate controls. Cabin's high-grade materials appropriate for this price level, but not flimsy sun visors and some plastic cabin trim. Top powers in and out of trunk area in 16 sec.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| SL500 | SL600 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 5.4 |
Hard to fault. Stretch-out space. Supportive, comfortable seats, though low-slung body, long doors mean less-than-ideal entry/exit.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| SL500 | SL600 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0 | .6 |
(No rear seating.)
CARGO ROOM
| SL500 | SL600 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 2.2 |
Trunk has 10.2 cu ft with roof raised, 7.3 with it lowered, enough for two small golf bags. Stowed top pivots for access to items in trunk bottom. Cabin storage includes covered bins behind seats.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| SL500 | SL600 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4.6 |
SLs are intriguingly engineered, solidly built, impeccably finished, and a pleasure to drive. Their style and cachet should stay fresh for years, boosting long-term resale values and taking some sting out of startling sticker prices.
Total Score
| SL500 | SL600 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 54 | 56 | 47.4 |
Total Score: 55
Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars
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