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550 is a CPO and a year younger. Same "exclusive" interior. Color choices are personal preference (polar white with beige is not for me, but iridium silver with black is). Wheels bring zero in resale and can easily be added; if CCB brakes are important they also can be added to 550, but 2 cyls can not be added to 450. My opinion, others may disagree and its fine, but it feels to me like there's a herd following here.
I must say, I love the SL 550's Twin Turbo V8 and would not settle for anything less in power. With regard to the car's options, it's hard to say with absolute certainty, but the 'opaque' roof pic provided by the Dealer suggests this Silver 2020 SL 550 may also have the Magic Sky roof option as well. It appears to have the illuminated Door Sill Option too. If it does have those particular options, (and the all-important Driver Assist Package), then I would certainly consider this a very well-optioned and highly desirable SL 550 indeed. While it's highly subjective to be sure, for me, the Iridium Silver Metallic Exterior Acrylic Paint is preferable to the Polar White Enamel on any 231, but obviously YMMV applies when it comes to color selection.
I do 'suggest' that any prospective Buyer of this Silver SL 550 consider having the MB Dealer order and install a Burlwood Steering Wheel to replace the stock black leather steering wheel as I believe that would make the Exclusive Leather Interior look 'even sharper'.
With regard to adding options after taking delivery, I can only say that to my eye, this 2020 Silver SL 550 looks 'perfect' with the stock 19" multi spoke wheels, so to be perfectly frank, I really don't understand why anyone would even consider adding super-expensive options like $6,000 SL 65 Forged wheels and/or 'after-market' $15,000 ceramic brakes to this already great car. In fact, I suspect the latter would impact MB's standard and CPO warranty as it applies to the SL 550's brakes.
The Silver 2020 SL 550 looks like a great car priced to sell quickly - Hopefully one of the members here will snap it up before it's gone!...
550 is a CPO and a year younger. Same "exclusive" interior. Color choices are personal preference (polar white with beige is not for me, but iridium silver with black is). Wheels bring zero in resale and can easily be added; if CCB brakes are important they also can be added to 550, but 2 cyls can not be added to 450. My opinion, others may disagree and its fine, but it feels to me like there's a herd following here.
Have you driven both for any longer than a ride around the block? Very different feel between the two V8/V6.
I must say, I love the SL 550's Twin Turbo V8 and would not settle for anything less in power. With regard to the car's options, it's hard to say with absolute certainty, but the 'opaque' roof pic provided by the Dealer indicates this Silver 2020 SL 550 may also have the Magic Sky roof option as well. If it does have that option, (and the Driver Assist Package), then I would certainly consider this a very well-optioned and highly desirable SL 550 indeed. While it's highly subjective, to me, the Iridium Silver Metallic Exterior Color is preferable to Polar White on a 231, but obviously YMMV applies when it comes to selecting colors.
I would suggest any prospective Buyer of this Silver SL 550 consider having the Dealer order a Burlwood Steering Wheel to replace the stock steering wheel as I believe that would make the Exclusive Leather Interior look even sharper. To my eye, this Silver SL 550 looks just great with the stock 19" multi spoke wheels, and frankly, I can't see why anyone would even consider adding super-expensive options like $6,000 SL 65 wheels and/or any 'after-market' $15,000 ceramic brakes. In fact, I suspect the latter might even impact the car's factory warranty for the brakes.
Agree on all above except for the wooden steering wheel. Had it in two cars in FL. Forget about when vehicle is parked, just driving the car in the heat of the day and touching any wooden part, especially the top, is unpleasant to say the least.
Yes I have! Have you? This thread is NOT about 550 vs 450/400, but the difference (in favor 550) is immense. Period.
Because you say "period" does not make it so & you are the person that mentioned the 2 extra cylinders making it about V8/V6..... sorry .
In answer to your question yes and probably more than you have!
I don't see the "immense" difference you allude to. The V8 has better torque and is a better dragster (although only 0.6 sec 0-60).
How else is it better than the V6. H
I can tell you where the V8 is worse.
The V6 is a better all rounder, less weight (130lbs) all at the front wheels ergo, better balance and handling (shorter braking ...same brakes) and (for those that care) better fuel economy. For anyone looking at a powerful sophisticated GT, the V6 ticks all the boxes. I've owned V8s (including a Dodge Hemi 5.7L ) and that brute power is not the be all and end all in a car like the SL.
For some straight line spped is important for others overall handling is important - whatever floats your boat buddy. "Period".
Last edited by rorywquin; Aug 31, 2020 at 01:11 PM.
The V6 is a better all rounder, less weight (130lbs) all at the front wheels ergo, better balance and handling and (for those that care) better fuel economy. For anyone looking at a powerful sophisticated GT, the V6 ticks all the boxes. I've owned V8s (including a Dodge Hemi 5.7L ) and that brute power is not the be all and end all in a car like the SL.
To rephrase: 400/450 is also even lighter and as such is even better balanced than 63 as well. Ya I got you. All those stupid people committing blasphemy by waisting their money on 63s.
Because you say "period" does not make it so & you are the person that mentioned the 2 extra cylinders making it about V8/V6..... sorry .
In answer to your question yes and probably more than you have!
I don't see the "immense" difference you allude to. The V8 has better torque and is a better dragster (although only 0.6 sec 0-60).
How else is it better than the V6. H
I can tell you where the V8 is worse.
The V6 is a better all rounder, less weight (130lbs) all at the front wheels ergo, better balance and handling (shorter braking ...same brakes) and (for those that care) better fuel economy. For anyone looking at a powerful sophisticated GT, the V6 ticks all the boxes. I've owned V8s (including a Dodge Hemi 5.7L ) and that brute power is not the be all and end all in a car like the SL.
For some straight line spped is important for others overall handling is important - whatever floats your boat buddy. "Period".
I bet you’re frustrated because probably you don’t have the 550, just get over it...😂
2019 SL450, 2019 E450 Luxury Trim Wagon, 2024 BMW I7 xDrive60
After being on these forums for many years, I have come to count on the fact that many—if not most—folks here will defend to the death the particular vehicle they happen to drive, almost no matter what. If the internet existed back when the Ford Pinto was being sold, I’m sure there would have been lots of guys claiming just how wonderful their Pinto was and that all the talk of gas tanks exploding was “just a bunch of talk.”
Fast forward several decades and here we are yet again, debating the V6 vs the V8 R231 models. Well, I’ve owned them both. I had my 2013 SL550 and the sound of the V8 can’t be beat. Unfortunately, for me, that’s where the love affair ended.” That car, without ABC, did not ride or handle well and IMO, was uncomfortable to drive, so I sold it, wanting a car with ABC. Before placing my order, I drove 450 & 550 SL’s back to back, over the same twisty roads, up and down hills, through Laguna Niguel. I thought I would miss the torque of the V8, but was pleasantly surprised by how potent the V6 was. Right after those drives, I was 100% sold on the V6 model, as it drove SO much better, IMO. The difference was SO pronounced, that had the two cars been the exact same price (the SL450 is roughly $20K less than the SL550), I still would have chosen the 450.
Now, I understand that some folks are just not happy unless their car can smoke the tires, which the SL450 probably won’t do, or at least won’t do in a spectacular enough fashion, like the 550 will. I get it. I used to be that way myself, but I got over it, I believe in my later 20’s. Somewhere along the line, driving dynamics and ride quality became more important to me. Nobody wants to admit it, but 99% of the time, the additional torque and power of the V8 will be used for one purpose and the result will be shattering traffic laws, at least in the USA. I don’t do that anymore either.
Of course, this is all my opinion, but even those who review cars for a living seem to agree. Here is a cut from a review (link to full review at the bottom) of the 2018 SL lineup done by MotorTrend:
What We Think .................Surprisingly, we enjoined the SL450 the most and said: "We like the lighter feel and nimbler responses of the V-6-powered SL-Class, and despite it being the least powerful of the bunch, still found it to be faster than anyone would need it to be." .................... https://www.motortrend.com/cars/merc...sl-class/2018/
Anyway, at the end of the day, I hope we are all enjoying our SL’s on this beautiful summer day. Cheers!
I bet you’re frustrated because probably you don’t have the 550, just get over it...😂
Poor little Pen1$ extension that you are, listing all your cars......
If I'd wanted a 500. I'd have purchased one. I bought my car new and specified exactly the car I want. As stated, I've already owned V8s more powerful that a SL500.
Last edited by rorywquin; Aug 31, 2020 at 02:24 PM.
To rephrase: 400/450 is also even lighter and as such is even better balanced than 63 as well. Ya I got you. All those stupid people committing blasphemy by waisting their money on 63s.
Now you are being disingenuous. The AMG's are totally different cars!
After being on these forums for many years, I have come to count on the fact that many—if not most—folks here will defend to the death the particular vehicle they happen to drive, almost no matter what. If the internet existed back when the Ford Pinto was being sold, I’m sure there would have been lots of guys claiming just how wonderful their Pinto was and that all the talk of gas tanks exploding was “just a bunch of talk.”
Fast forward several decades and here we are yet again, debating the V6 vs the V8 R231 models. Well, I’ve owned them both. I had my 2013 SL550 and the sound of the V8 can’t be beat. Unfortunately, for me, that’s where the love affair ended.” That car, without ABC, did not ride or handle well and IMO, was uncomfortable to drive, so I sold it, wanting a car with ABC. Before placing my order, I drove 450 & 550 SL’s back to back, over the same twisty roads, up and down hills, through Laguna Niguel. I thought I would miss the torque of the V8, but was pleasantly surprised by how potent the V6 was. Right after those drives, I was 100% sold on the V6 model, as it drove SO much better, IMO. The difference was SO pronounced, that had the two cars been the exact same price (the SL450 is roughly $20K less than the SL550), I still would have chosen the 450.
Now, I understand that some folks are just not happy unless their car can smoke the tires, which the SL450 probably won’t do, or at least won’t do in a spectacular enough fashion, like the 550 will. I get it. I used to be that way myself, but I got over it, I believe in my later 20’s. Somewhere along the line, driving dynamics and ride quality became more important to me. Nobody wants to admit it, but 99% of the time, the additional torque and power of the V8 will be used for one purpose and the result will be shattering traffic laws, at least in the USA. I don’t do that anymore either.
Of course, this is all my opinion, but even those who review cars for a living seem to agree. Here is a cut from a review (link to full review at the bottom) of the 2018 SL lineup done by MotorTrend:
What We Think .................Surprisingly, we enjoined the SL450 the most and said: "We like the lighter feel and nimbler responses of the V-6-powered SL-Class, and despite it being the least powerful of the bunch, still found it to be faster than anyone would need it to be." .................... https://www.motortrend.com/cars/merc...sl-class/2018/
Anyway, at the end of the day, I hope we are all enjoying our SL’s on this beautiful summer day. Cheers!
Exactly what I was trying (not very well) to say. Thank you!
Last edited by rorywquin; Aug 31, 2020 at 02:26 PM.
Now you are being disingenuous. The AMG's are totally different cars!
I stuck to the script 450 vs 550.
Am I?
Originally Posted by rorywquin
How else is it better than the V6. H
I can tell you where the V8 is worse.
The V6 is a better all rounder, less weight (130lbs) all at the front wheels ergo, better balance and handling (shorter braking ...same brakes) and (for those that care) better fuel economy.
Nowhere above I see 550 vs. 450/400. But I do see V8 vs. V6.
Originally Posted by rorywquin
For anyone looking at a powerful sophisticated GT, the V6 ticks all the boxes. I've owned V8s (including a Dodge Hemi 5.7L ) and that brute power is not the be all and end all in a car like the SL.
Ah SL63. Oh wait there's SL65 too.
Originally Posted by rorywquin
For some straight line spped is important for others overall handling is important
I think my 550 is an extremely well handling car - I've widen the front track by 40mm and rear by 50mm. I use Pilot SuperSports (summer, not A/S, PS4 is even better). Handling/traction/acceleration/stopping is amazing to me.
Last edited by threeMBs; Aug 31, 2020 at 02:36 PM.
2019 SL450, 2019 E450 Luxury Trim Wagon, 2024 BMW I7 xDrive60
Originally Posted by rorywquin
.................... I bought my car new and specified exactly the car I want................
For me, one of the great pleasures, is placing a factory order for a car and having it delivered exactly as you specified. It’s just an enjoyable process, at least for me.
Nowhere above I see 550 vs. 450/400. But I do see V8 vs. V6.
It is actually very simple - you're happy with what you have and I'm with what I have. Can't we at least agree on that?
450/550 (you specifically mentioned it) . AMG is a different car.
Problem I have, is when there are broad statements that a V8 is better on two identical cars (other than 2cyls and the associated straight-line performance). An SL400/450 with ABC vs a 500/550 without is like chalk and cheese.
I was working in New Orleans in the late 90's and got into a discussion with a colleague (USA) on the merits of a BMW M5 vs his big USA V8 muscle car (I forget which it was). My argument was that the M5 (also a V8) would always win on a race track because of better handling and therefore was a better car. The result of our 'chat' was the most hair raising ride I've ever had in a car. It was through the streets on New Orleans at 4am with him showing me how well his car handled......
For me, one of the great pleasures, is placing a factory order for a car and having it delivered exactly as you specified. It’s just an enjoyable process, at least for me.
Yea - difficult to beat that feeling of going to the showroom and collecting what you have specified and waited (in my case) 16 weeks for.
Problem I have, is when there are broad statements that a V8 is better on two identical cars (other than 2cyls and the associated straight-line performance). An SL400/450 with ABC vs a 500/550 without is like chalk and cheese.
Aah? This is where I got lost. (Maybe you missed the thread's heading?)
Aah? This is where I got lost. (Maybe you missed the thread's heading?)
Not to drag this on.....the ABC comment is just an aside....
I had a nice run out to my favourite village (gastro) pub for lunch today. Roof down there and back, good lunch and a nice day all together. We all enjoy our cars in different ways. There was a matte grey Lambo Aventador in the car park and while I'd like to own one, in my current circumstances (even if I could afford a Lambo) I think the SL is a nicer and better looking ride (however I've only ever liked the Diablo).
Gentlemen, please keep it civil and relevant to the actual thread.
We already have the never-ending discussion about ABC; no need to add the V6/V8 one to the list. Mercedes obviously offered several configs to fit peoples different priorities
This one has one of the highest list prices, I've ever seen on a SL550, ($137,105). Obviously it's loaded with almost every option MB offers for the 231...
Well, obviously it doesn't have either of the optional Wood steering wheels, (Burlwood, Black Ash or Satin Poplar), but that's likely only because it has the Black Piano Lacquer Trim Option. (There is no matching wood steering wheel for that particular trim option).
Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 S Is Extremely Rare Example Modified by McLaren
Slideshow: A one-of-one U.S.-spec Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster became even rarer after a factory-backed transformation at McLaren's headquarters.
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