A Brief Look at the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class: A History and Evolution Guide
The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is the flagship convertible roadster produced by the Mercedes-Benz brand, representing over 60 years of production and evolution. This iconic sports car has experienced an extensive evolution – while the fundamentals of the design have stayed true to its predecessors, the car’s capabilities have been continuously upgraded with every new generation. In this article, we will take a comprehensive look at the history of the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, its design, evolution, and specific variations.
The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL
The Mercedes-Benz 300SL, introduced in 1954, was the first model of the SL-Class. Although originally designed as a racecar, the modern 300SL was marketed as a luxurious roadster. The 300SL came with a fuel-injected, 3.0-liter straight-six engine capable of achieving a top speed of 160 mph, the fastest production car of its time. The 300SL also came with a stylish design and unique butterfly doors, which would later be re-created in the modern Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG.
In 1957, Mercedes-Benz released the 300SL Roadster, which replaced the coupe version, whereas the technical features of the 300SL roadster remained the same. Only 1858 units of the 300SL Roadster were produced.
The Mercedes-Benz W113 280SL
The Mercedes-Benz “Pagoda” SL (W113) was introduced in 1963 and remained in production until 1971. This model was named the “Pagoda” due to its unique style of the hardtop roof that had a sloped top and concave rear window, resembling traditional Japanese pagodas. The W113 is known as one of the most elegant roadsters ever produced.
The W113 features an M129 2.8-liter fuel-injected engine and a four-speed automatic transmission, a significant advancement compared to its predecessor. Furthermore, the car houses a fully independent suspension, a safety-designed fuel tank, and a new technology safety steering wheel. All of these features made the W113 notably more reliable than previous generations.
The Mercedes-Benz R107 560SL
The R107 generation was the longest-running SL-Class model, lasting from 1971 to 1989. The R107 was introduced in 1971 with a new design, aimed more towards comfort and luxury but still sporty. The R107 models featured larger engines, automatic transmissions, improved aerodynamics, and a more advanced suspension.
One of the most popular R107 models was the 560SL, introduced in 1986 with a larger V8 engine, improved fuel injection, and a four-speed automatic transmission. Over the course of its production run, over 237,000 models were produced, making it the most popular SL model in terms of units sold.
The Mercedes-Benz R129 600SL
The R129 generation was introduced in 1989 and lasted until 2002. The R129 was the first SL-Class model to be equipped with additional safety features, including a passenger airbag and seatbelt pre-tensioners.
The R129 also featured Hydro-pneumatic shock absorbers and a newly developed rear suspension, delivering a sporty yet smooth ride. In 1993, Mercedes-Benz introduced the W140 V12 engine, producing 389 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. The W140 V12 engine served as the powerhouse for the 600SL edition.
The 600SL is known for its V12 engine, making it an iconic model of the R129 generation. The 600SL model is often described as a grand touring car due to its powerful engine, luxury features, and comfortable and responsive handling.
The Mercedes-Benz R230 SL550
The R230 emerged as a completely redesigned SL-Class model at the turn of the new millennium. The R230 features a smooth design with a retractable hardtop roof, a reinforced chassis, and a 5.5-liter V8 engine. Mercedes-Benz introduced the SL550 model in 2007, featuring a 5.5-liter V8 engine with 382 horsepower and a seven-speed automatic transmission.
The SL550 model also features ventilated front and rear disc brakes, a newly redesigned two-link front suspension, and Mercedes-Benz’s Electronic Stability Program (ESP). Additionally, the SL-Class adopted new safety features including Parktronic sensors, adaptive cruise control, and active body control.
The Mercedes-Benz R231 SL400
The R231 SL-Class generation was introduced in 2012, featuring a sportier and more aggressive look. The R231 featured a 4.6-liter V8 engine or a 3.0-liter V6 engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission.
The SL400 model, introduced in 2013, is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 engine, producing 329 horsepower. This model is more fuel-efficient and offers more torque compared to those equipped with V8 engines. The R231 features updated safety features, including Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Monitoring, and Pre-Safe brake technology.
RunBidSell Insights
The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class has set a standard for luxury convertible roadsters. Throughout its over 60 years of production, the SL-Class has continued to advance technologically. From the 300 SL to the recently added SL400, each generation of the SL-Class has brought innovation and world class engineering to the table. Those vehicles designed and produced by Mercedes-Benz are always an indication that quality and sophistication remain the recipe.