SL-Class (R231) 2013 on: Discussion on the SL550

SL/R231: Oh, how “Old Folks” our cars are………

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Old Dec 19, 2022 | 10:47 AM
  #1  
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Oh, how “Old Folks” our cars are………

Winter finally arrived in South Orange County, California a few weeks ago. We have had some decent rain and temperatures have been in the low 60’s most days. So, Mighty Mouse, who recently had her (yes, MM identifies as a female ) third service, has not been driven much lately. But yesterday, the skies were clear blue, the sun was out and even though it was only 63, I put the top down, hit the seat heaters & Air Scarf and took the mouse out for a “flight.”

After three years, I find it amazing how this 2019 SL450 puts a smile on my face every time I drive it. The car is just so perfect in so many ways. The ride, handling, acceleration & comfort of this little beauty are just wonderful. Sure, there is the crummy audio and no heated steering wheel, but one must endure these first world deficiencies, as the price of admission to enjoy these truly under appreciated cars.

Honestly, I drive MM so little—3,800 miles on the clock—that the idea of selling her has crossed my mind. But then, like yesterday, we go for a spin and I’m reminded of how much I love this car. While the guys over at R232 are gushing about their new $180K ragtops with their iPad controls, I continue to marvel at how simply wonderful our “old folks” 231’s are and I tuck MM back in the garage, where she awaits our next adventure.

Wishing everyone here on MBWorld a wonderful holiday season!





Old Dec 19, 2022 | 11:45 AM
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[QUOTE=Streamliner;8688377]
Originally Posted by Streamliner
Winter finally arrived in South Orange County, California a few weeks ago.
Wishing everyone here on MBWorld a wonderful holiday season!
Looking Good! Nice to have a car with a hard top for the Cali Winter huh?
Better yet, it folds up and way....

Happy Holidays.

Last edited by crconsulting; Dec 19, 2022 at 11:57 AM.
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Old Dec 19, 2022 | 12:35 PM
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Streamliner, funny you should mention that. I picked up a buddy last night to go for a drink. He's a retired CFO of a large company and could drive what he wants but has rather pedestrian vehicles. On the way home he turned and looked at me and told me how lucky I was to have my car. It was a brisk, crisp evening, had Mel Torme crooning Christmas carols on the radio and we'd just enjoyed some fine bourbon and cigars. The town was lit up with Christmas lights, it truly was a nice ending to the evening.
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Old Dec 19, 2022 | 01:25 PM
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As we are expecting a storm with temps dropping in the teens by Wednesday I knew it was just a matter of time before a Cali or Florida driver mentioned top down driving. You didn't disappoint!
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Old Dec 19, 2022 | 07:51 PM
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Originally Posted by emilner
As we are expecting a storm with temps dropping in the teens by Wednesday I knew it was just a matter of time before a Cali or Florida driver mentioned top down driving. You didn't disappoint!
Yes, BUT………We here in LALA Land have to put up with insanity heaped upon us at every turn. There have to be SOME reasons we put up with it and the weather is right up there at the top of the list.
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Old Dec 19, 2022 | 10:00 PM
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Originally Posted by Streamliner
Winter finally arrived in South Orange County, California a few weeks ago. We have had some decent rain and temperatures have been in the low 60’s most days. So, Mighty Mouse, who recently had her (yes, MM identifies as a female ) third service, has not been driven much lately. But yesterday, the skies were clear blue, the sun was out and even though it was only 63, I put the top down, hit the seat heaters & Air Scarf and took the mouse out for a “flight.”

After three years, I find it amazing how this 2019 SL450 puts a smile on my face every time I drive it. The car is just so perfect in so many ways. The ride, handling, acceleration & comfort of this little beauty are just wonderful. Sure, there is the crummy audio and no heated steering wheel, but one must endure these first world deficiencies, as the price of admission to enjoy these truly under appreciated cars.

Honestly, I drive MM so little—3,800 miles on the clock—that the idea of selling her has crossed my mind. But then, like yesterday, we go for a spin and I’m reminded of how much I love this car. While the guys over at R232 are gushing about their new $180K ragtops with their iPad controls, I continue to marvel at how simply wonderful our “old folks” 231’s are and I tuck MM back in the garage, where she awaits our next adventure.

Wishing everyone here on MBWorld a wonderful holiday season!


Although I do consider myself to be a "young" 64-year-old, I agree with your above sentiments and assessments, Streamliner! Also like you, I am still very happy with my "old folks" '18 SL 550, that I ordered in August '17! Having said this, I have thoroughly checked out the R232, and I will very gladly stick with "Cardinal"!






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Old Dec 19, 2022 | 10:05 PM
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Originally Posted by SLclass
Although I do consider myself to be a "young" 64-year-old, I agree with your above sentiments and assessments, Streamliner! Also like you, I am still very happy with my "old folks" '18 SL 550, that I ordered in August '17! Having said this, I have thoroughly checked out the R232, and I will very gladly stick with "Cardinal"!





Simply GORGEOUS!
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Old Dec 20, 2022 | 08:17 AM
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I'll drop the top if temp is 50 or better. The heat works great so enjoy the goodies whenever you can!
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Old Dec 20, 2022 | 01:21 PM
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Winter is definitely here in western MD. Polar vortex arrives this weekend with single digit lows and highs in the teens. That said, I'll drive my SL as long as the roads are dry and salt free. Replaced the summer runflats with Continental Extreme Contact DWS06+ and they perform well even in cold temps. While they are snow rated I won't drive when roads are snow or ice covered. The R231 is an all season touring hardtop convertible roadster. Wow, that's a mouthful.
Happy Holidays to everyone.
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