A Brief Look at the Mercedes-Benz 350
The Mercedes-Benz 350: A Brief Overview
Mercedes-Benz is a name synonymous with luxury, style, and performance. One model that has proved iconic in the Mercedes-Benz lineup is the top-of-the-line 350. The Mercedes-Benz 350 has been in production for over six decades, evolving and innovating throughout the years to remain relevant and ahead of the competition.
The 350 model has always been associated with high quality and superior performance, with each generation showcasing the brand’s technical prowess, unrivaled style, and engineering excellence. In this article, we will look at in-depth detail and analysis of all the different variants of the Mercedes-Benz 350 model, starting with its inception in the 1950s to present-day models.
The First Generation: 1950-1955 Mercedes-Benz 350SL and 350SLC
The first Mercedes-Benz 350SL Roadster (W198) model was launched in 1957. It was the successor to the renowned 300SL, and was the first vehicle by Mercedes-Benz to feature a petrol fuel injection system. The first generation 350 model was a two-door coupe with style, elegance, and aerodynamics that were ahead of its time.
The 350SL was later updated and launched as the 350SLC in 1971. The 350SLC had a longer wheelbase and was a genuine grand touring coupe. It had a unique rear decoration inspired by the wedge shape design of the Lamborghini Countach. Both the 350SL and 350SLC models had iconic gull-wing doors that were a hit with consumers and enthusiasts alike.
The Second Generation: 1970-1980 Mercedes-Benz 350SE and 350SEL
The second-generation of the Mercedes-Benz 350 was launched in the early 1970s, with the 350SE and 350SEL models. Similar to their predecessors, these models had intricate bodywork and an overall elegance that was distinctively Mercedes.
The 350SE and 350SEL models had upgraded interiors featuring leather upholstery and wood trims, as well as upgraded powertrains. The 350SEL had a longer wheelbase than the 350SE, and both models were powered by a V8 engine.
The Third Generation: 1980-1990 Mercedes-Benz 350SEC and 350SEL
The third generation of the Mercedes-Benz 350 was launched in the 1980s, with two models, the 350SEC and 350SEL. These models were famous for their improved aerodynamics, which improved fuel efficiency.
The 350SEC was a two-door coupe variant, while the 350SEL was a four-door sedan. The models were powered by upgraded gasoline engines, with the 350SEC having a six-cylinder engine, while the 350SEL had a V8.
The Fourth Generation: 1990-2000 Mercedes-Benz 350SL and 350SLK
In the 1990s, the Mercedes-Benz 350SL and 350SLK models were unveiled. This generation had structural upgrades intended to enhance second-generation safety performance. The new models featured an electromechanical four-speed automatic transmission, and the SLK model was the first roadster with a more refined folding hardtop.
The 350SL variant had a 3.5L V6 engine, while the 350SLK had a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Both models had a speed limiter that maxed out at 155 mph.
The Fifth Generation: 2000-2010 Mercedes-Benz 350CLK, 350SLK, and 350SL
The fifth generation of the Mercedes-Benz 350 was introduced in the early 2000s, with the 350CLK, 350SLK, and 350SL. The elegant shape of these models was inspired by their aerodynamic qualities. The models also featured electronically controlled speed-sensing power steering.
The 350CLK was a two-door coupe, while the 350SLK and 350SL were two-seater roadsters. The CLK and SL models had 3.5L engines and five-speed automatic transmissions, while the SLK model had a supercharged 3.5L V6 engine and a six-speed manual transmission.
The Sixth Generation: 2010-present: Mercedes-Benz 350SL and 350SLK
The sixth and current generation of the Mercedes-Benz 350 was launched in 2010 and includes the 350SL and 350SLK models. These models have numerous new features, including a V6 gasoline engine that produces 302 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque that can carry the car from 0-60 in under 5 seconds.
The cars also have advanced safety features such as antilock brakes, electronic stability control, and an adaptive suspension system.
RunBidSell Insights
The Mercedes-Benz 350 has been an iconic model for over six decades, and it has continually evolved with the times to remain relevant and ahead of the competition. It has been associated with high quality, luxury and superior performance for years, with every iteration showcasing Mercedes-Benz’s technical prowess, unrivaled style, and engineering excellence. It is no surprise that the Mercedes-Benz 350 is one of the most popular cars globally. Whether you are looking for prestige, luxury, or performance, the Mercedes-Benz 350 is undoubtedly a car to consider.