SL/R230: SL model years ?
Almost a Member!
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 35
Likes: 0
From: Eugene, OR
2004 BMW 330xi, 2005 Infiniti G35, coming this summer: SL55
Car was given a major facelift for 2003 - a significant improvement IMHO. Most notably the removable hardtop was replaced with a folding hardtop. Many cosmetic changes - see pictures below (top picture is 2002, bottom picture is 2003 after major facelift). In 2004 a 7 speed transmission replaced the 5 speed. Some people like the 7 speed more saying it makes the car quicker, some people prefer the 5 speed saying the 7 speed tranny hunts for gears too much in around-town driving. In 2005 the main improvement was to the navigation system. Too early to know what changes will be made for 2006, but a refresh of the taillights and other minor exterior cosmetic changes are rumored. Go to MB website to read about the 2005 SL500, and they also have a 16 year model overview feature that lets you see the year-to-year changes.
Last edited by Prolix; Apr 10, 2005 at 07:43 AM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 2,604
Likes: 125
2026 Mercedes CLE53A4 AMG Cabriolet and 2025 MAYBACH EQS680V4
Originally Posted by thunderman6
Are there any differences between 01/02/03/04 models? Interested in getting a R230 SL 500 but if it has been face lifted aiming for the facelifted one. Thanks for any help.
Depending on what car you are getting there could be some differences. On the SL500, sometime later in 2004 they went to the 7 speed transmission as opposed to 5 speed which made the car much faster off the line. In 2005 they basically ownly upgraded the navigation unit which was a very nice upgrade. Also in 2005 they eliminated a few options like the inside power rear view mirror and the A/C burst buttons on the dash.
Other than that the SL hasn't changed very much at all since the introduction of the new SL in 2003.
If you can afford it, I would go for 2003 and later.
Good luck.
