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2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Full Review
Date Published: 7/31/08
Also in the 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Review:
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Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Full Review
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2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Review
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class gets no major changes. These are Mercedes's costliest convertibles. They seat two and have a power-retractable hardtop. Four models are available. The SL550 has a 382-hp 5.5-liter V8 engine. The SL600 has a 510-hp turbocharged V12. The SL55 and SL65 are tuned by Mercedes's AMG performance arm. The former has a 510-hp supercharged V8, and the latter uses a 604-hp turbocharged V12. SL550 models have a 7-speed automatic transmission. All other SL-Class models have a 5-speed automatic. All SL-Class models have Mercedes's ABC active suspension that's designed to reduce cornering lean. Also standard are "by-wire" antilock brakes that can modulate brake pressure to each wheel. Other available safety features include traction control, antiskid system, side airbags, driver knee airbag, and a rollover bar designed to deploy in an impending tip. Also standard are navigation and assistance systems. Adaptive cruise control is optional.
Competition
Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Offering more power and style than typical Sporty/Performance vehicles, Premium Sporty/Performance Cars usually cost much more and have more comfort and convenience equipment. Two-passenger convertibles and four-seat coupes rule the roost in this class.
Our Best Buys are the BMW Z4 and Chevrolet Corvette. Our Recommended picks are the Jaguar XK Series, Porsche Boxster, and Porsche Cayman.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Audi A5, Audi R8, and Audi TT.
Our Best Buys are the BMW Z4 and Chevrolet Corvette. Our Recommended picks are the Jaguar XK Series, Porsche Boxster, and Porsche Cayman.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Audi A5, Audi R8, and Audi TT.
News
A redesigned SL is still being rumored for sometime after 2008, but precise timing is still unknown. Whenever it arrives, the replacement should share many technical features with the redesigned 2007 S-Class large sedans.
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2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Acceleration | Brake-pedal feel |
| Steering/handling | Navigation-system controls |
| Seat comfort | Fuel economy |
| Build quality | |
| Interior materials | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
SL550 gathers speed rapidly, shows true authority above 40 mph, and feels equal to Mercedes's 5.3-second 0-60-mph claim. SL600 is stronger still. Its claimed 4.5-second 0-60 mph time feels right to us. No AMG versions have been made available for us to test, but Mercedes pegs them at less than 4.5 seconds 0-60 mph.
| SL550 | SL600 | Class Average |
| 7 | 10 | 8.1 |
SL550 gathers speed rapidly, shows true authority above 40 mph, and feels equal to Mercedes's 5.3-second 0-60-mph claim. SL600 is stronger still. Its claimed 4.5-second 0-60 mph time feels right to us. No AMG versions have been made available for us to test, but Mercedes pegs them at less than 4.5 seconds 0-60 mph.
Fuel Economy
No opportunity yet to measure. All SLs require premium-grade gas.
| SL550 | SL600 | Class Average |
| 2 | 1 | 4.2 |
No opportunity yet to measure. All SLs require premium-grade gas.
Ride Quality
Any SL displays a fine blend of firm control and astute bump absorption. There's a bit more jarring than expected on really rough pavement. There's virtually no cowl shake with the top down.
| SL550 | SL600 | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 4.4 |
Any SL displays a fine blend of firm control and astute bump absorption. There's a bit more jarring than expected on really rough pavement. There's virtually no cowl shake with the top down.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Great balance in turns, natural steering feel, and good grip. High-speed stability also impresses. Simulated panic stops produced shorter than average distances. The brake-by-wire system furnishes inconsistent stopping action from town speeds and excessive initial pedal travel from higher speeds.
| SL550 | SL600 | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 8.7 |
Great balance in turns, natural steering feel, and good grip. High-speed stability also impresses. Simulated panic stops produced shorter than average distances. The brake-by-wire system furnishes inconsistent stopping action from town speeds and excessive initial pedal travel from higher speeds.
Quietness
Top-up, SL is as quiet as most any luxury coupe, with little wind noise and almost no tire roar. Top-down, wind rush is well-managed. The engines sound refined. They're mostly hushed at idle and little louder at full throttle.
| SL550 | SL600 | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 4.2 |
Top-up, SL is as quiet as most any luxury coupe, with little wind noise and almost no tire roar. Top-down, wind rush is well-managed. The engines sound refined. They're mostly hushed at idle and little louder at full throttle.
Controls
Sporty, sophisticated dashboard, though the speedometer and tachometer are obscured by glare in some lighting conditions. SL has an abundance of buttons and switches, though all are easy to reach. The navigation system complicates some audio and climate settings, and most adjustments require multiple inputs. Pop-out cupholders obscure the navigation screen and nearby climate controls.
| SL550 | SL600 | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 5.6 |
Sporty, sophisticated dashboard, though the speedometer and tachometer are obscured by glare in some lighting conditions. SL has an abundance of buttons and switches, though all are easy to reach. The navigation system complicates some audio and climate settings, and most adjustments require multiple inputs. Pop-out cupholders obscure the navigation screen and nearby climate controls.
Details
The cabin's high-grade materials are mostly appropriate for the lofty prices; exceptions are flimsy sun visors and a few bits of hard plastic cabin trim. Top powers in and out of the trunk area in 16 seconds.
| SL550 | SL600 | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 6.9 |
The cabin's high-grade materials are mostly appropriate for the lofty prices; exceptions are flimsy sun visors and a few bits of hard plastic cabin trim. Top powers in and out of the trunk area in 16 seconds.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Hard to fault, with stretch-out space and supportive, comfortable seats. SL's low-slung body and long doors complicate entry and exit.
| SL550 | SL600 | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 5.8 |
Hard to fault, with stretch-out space and supportive, comfortable seats. SL's low-slung body and long doors complicate entry and exit.
Room/Comfort (rear)
(No rear seating.)
| SL550 | SL600 | Class Average |
| 0 | 0 | .7 |
(No rear seating.)
Cargo Room
Trunk has 10.2 cu ft with the roof raised and 7.3 with it lowered, enough for two small golf bags. When stowed, the top pivots for access to items in the trunk bottom. Cabin storage is pretty meager overall, but it does include covered bins behind the seats.
| SL550 | SL600 | Class Average |
| 3 | 3 | 2.6 |
Trunk has 10.2 cu ft with the roof raised and 7.3 with it lowered, enough for two small golf bags. When stowed, the top pivots for access to items in the trunk bottom. Cabin storage is pretty meager overall, but it does include covered bins behind the seats.
Value within Class
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.
| SL550 | SL600 | Class Average |
| 6 | 3 | 5.3 |
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
| SL550 | SL600 | Class Average |
| 60 | 59 | 56.5 |
Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars
| Low Score | 39 | |
| Average Score | 56 | |
| High Score | 65 |
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2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 03/13/2008
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
|
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| SL550 2-door convertible | $95,300 | $88,629 | $825 |
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| SL55 2-door convertible | $129,300 | $120,249 | $825 |
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| SL600 2-door convertible | $133,200 | $123,876 | $825 |
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| SL65 2-door convertible | $187,200 | $174,096 | $825 |
Price note: SL550 adds $1300 Gas-Guzzler Tax. SL55, SL600, SL65 add $2600 Gas-Guzzler Tax.
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
SL550
Powertrain
5.5-liter V8 engine, 7-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, side airbags, driver knee airbag, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system, automatic roll bar, tire-pressure monitor, emergency inside trunklid release, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate controls, interior air filter, navigation system, Tele Aid assistance system, power tilt/telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, leather upholstery, heated 12-way power bucket seats w/lumbar adjustment, memory system (driver seat, mirrors, steering wheel), center console, wood interior trim, heated power mirrors w/driver-side automatic day/night, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, Bose AM/FM/CD player, 6-disc CD changer, satellite radio, wireless cell phone link, tachometer, trip computer, illuminated visor mirrors, automatic day/night rearview mirror, outside-temperature indicator, universal garage door opener, heated rain-sensing variable-intermittent wipers, automatic headlights, power-retractable hardtop, rear defogger, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, wind deflector, heated headlight washers, front and rear fog lights, active suspension w/level control, 255/40ZR18 front tires, 285/35ZR18 rear tires, alloy wheels.
SL55 adds to SL550:
Powertrain
5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability.
Safety
Uprated brakes.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Massaging multicontour seats, carbon-fiber interior trim.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: wood interior trim.
Sport suspension, 255/35ZR19 front tires, 285/30ZR19 rear tires.
SL600 adds to SL55:
Powertrain
5.5-liter turbocharged V12 engine.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Keyless access and starting, wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel, upgraded leather upholstery, wood interior trim, power trunk closer.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: carbon-fiber interior trim, sport suspension.
Bi-xenon headlights, cornering lights, 255/40ZR18 front tires, 285/35ZR18 rear tires.
SL65 adds to SL600:
Powertrain
6.0-liter turbocharged V12 engine.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated/ventilated seats, carbon-fiber interior trim.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel, wood interior trim.
Sport suspension, 255/35ZR19 front tires, 285/30ZR19 rear tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Premium Pkg. I
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||
|
SL55
|
$2,500
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$2,325
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|
Ventilated seats, keyless access and starting, bi-xenon headlights, cornering lights.
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AMG Sport Pkg.
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SL550, SL600
|
$5,460
|
$5,078
|
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Steering-wheel shift paddles, aerodynamics pkg., performance tires, unique alloy wheels.
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AMG Performance Pkg.
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SL55
|
$14,070
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$13,085
|
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Limited-slip differential, 186 top-speed limiter, uprated brakes, alcantara steering wheel, unique front bumper and side air extractors, performance suspension and tires.
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Trim Pkg.
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SL550
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$14,090
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$1,386
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Wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, upgraded leather upholstery. Std. SL600.
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Safety |
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Front- and rear-obstacle-detection system
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SL55, SL550, SL600, SL65
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$1,130
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$1,051
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
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Panorama glass roof
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SL55, SL550, SL600, SL65
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$1,930
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$1,795
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Wood interior trim
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SL55
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$0
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$0
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Special wood interior trim
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SL55, SL550, SL600, SL65
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$0
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$0
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Voice recognition
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SL55, SL550, SL600, SL65
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$510
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$474
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Adaptive cruise control
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SL55, SL550, SL600, SL65
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$2,200
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$2,046
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Power trunk closer
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SL550, SL55
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$520
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$484
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
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Run-flat tires
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SL550, SL600
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$220
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$205
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Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Mercedes-Benz SL-Class 2-door convertible |
| Wheelbase, in. | 100.8 |
| Overall Length, in. | 178.5 |
| Overall Width, in. | 71.5 |
| Overall Height, in. | 51.0 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 4220 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 10.2 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 21.1 |
| Seating Capacity | 2 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 37.7 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.9 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | -- |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | -- |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| dohc V8 | Supercharged sohc V8 | Turbocharged sohc V12 | Turbocharged sohc V12 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 5.5 /333 | 5.4 /332 | 5.5 /336 | 6.0 /365 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 382 @ 6000 | 510 @ 6100 | 510 @ 5000 | 604 @ 4800 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 391 @ 2800 | 531 @ 2600 | 612 @ 1900 | 738 @ 2000 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
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| 5-speed automatic | --/-- | 12/16 | 11/18 | 11/18 |
| 7-speed automatic | 14/21 | --/-- | --/-- | --/-- |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Mercedes-Benz SL-Class 2-door convertible |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | None/-- | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | --/-- | unlimited |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
Germany
Drivewheels:
rear-wheel drive
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
Also in the 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Full Review
7.
8.
9.
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