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On of the great joys in my life is night driving our R230 at night. With the warm night air all around and stars above, it's automotive bliss of the highest order .
Surprised no one has mentioned the great CL coupes here for those wanting a grand touring car with a fixed roof. I sure wouldn't say no to a clean CL63 and a month off work. Hello Montana!
On of the great joys in my life is night driving our R230 at night. With the warm night air all around and stars above, it's automotive bliss of the highest order .
Surprised no one has mentioned the great CL coupes here for those wanting a grand touring car with a fixed roof. I sure wouldn't say no to a clean CL63 and a month off work. Hello Montana!
Yes The CL Coupe is on my list. At 200 inches in length it is actually slight longer than the S Coupes. Which makes it a big car. May move in that direction if the SL without ABC or the E Coupe without airmatic ride quality don't cut it.
Loads of room for me at over 6ft and near 60inch chest
The large boot space with the roof folded down. It is actually more than a MK1 and 2 Ford Escorts etc. We have gone to Europe from London UK for a month in it in the last 2 years running staying in villas and a return trip of near 3000 miles and packed enough soft luggage and used washing machine once for shirts; I took 15 T shirts . Luggage for 2 of us fitted 3 in North Face Voyager Duffel 32L plus my even larger Camera Bag so 4 will fit and a soft overnight bag behind my wife seat and coats etc behind me. Then there is more room at the lower level and in the main area large wash bags fit one each side. Still leaving some room for jeans & summer rain coats on top of the cases.
Not for reliability it failed 3 times this year twice in Italy and the last evening in Germany . Italy gear change computer then 2 weeks later front wheel ABS sensor and finally 300 miles from home we limped back with yet again ABS and Traction light then Check Engine cut out. Limped is wrong rather don't go over 2000 RPM and that is 80MPH and never push the pedal harder than 5mm. New big battery after we came home as the only fault was low CAN voltage, thank you Ninja for your help much appreciated, and all seems OK now it’s off the road until the spring
Defiantly not for its handling as 3 decades ago I had a Jaguar XJ Sovereign with sports suspension pack that made the SL63 suspension feel like driving a truck
I would not buy it with a soft top; as there rag top would use to much cabin space for my stature
Would I but it as a R232 that's a 2+2........NO as Porsche do it just so much better as regard to handling
Maybe for handling I should have bought a California but it is a lot more money here in UK and would not meet 3 and 4 above
To the original Question...it turns out that I might have bought it, even as a coupe. I had two cars in my sights: a facelift R231 450, and a base 911 Carrera coupe. I test drove both cars (2017s) on the same day, over the same roads, SL 450 first. My impressions were that the SL is just a seriously nice car to be inside of. The 911's interior is stark, and almost Tesla-bland by comparison. The 911 has an outrageously loud road/tire noise intrusion problem, brand new OEM spec Pirellis notwithstanding, though even with optional 19" wheels it did manage to ride just as well as the non-ABC SL 450 did (which is just fine, btw). On the same stretch of rough, under-construction freeway, I had a normal conversation with the sales guy while in the SL, whereas in the 911 the sales guy and I were nearly shouting at each other. I was ready to buy a 911 coupe, so I guess I have to admit that I would have bought the SL even if its top did not go down. An added bonus with the SL 450: I've since found out what an unexpectedly great handling car the 450 is. It absolutely holds its own against some surprising competition on the "tail-of-the-dragon-like" roads in the mountains of northern Georgia...recently shocking the driver of an S2000 who couldn't shake me through the twisties there. This baby hustles well beyond its reputation.
Last edited by Dr. Manhattan; Dec 15, 2023 at 03:56 PM.
2019 SL450, 2019 E450 Luxury Trim Wagon, 2024 BMW I7 xDrive60
Originally Posted by Dr. Manhattan
To the original Question...it turns out that I might have bought it, even as a coupe. I had two cars in my sights: a facelift R231 450, and a base 911 Carrera coupe. I test drove both cars (2017s) on the same day. over the same roads, SL 450 first. My impressions were that the SL is just a seriously nice car to be inside of. The 911's interior is stark, and almost Tesla-bland by comparison. The 911 has an outrageously loud road/tire noise intrusion problem, brand new OEM spec Pirellis notwithstanding, though even with optional 20" wheels it did manage to ride just as well as the non-ABC Sl 450 did (which is just fine, btw). On the same stretch of rough, under-construction freeway, I had a normal conversation with the sales guy while in the SL, whereas in the 911 the sales guy and I were nearly shouting at each other. I was ready to buy a 911 coupe, so I guess I have to admit that I would have bought the SL even if its top did not go down. An added bonus with the SL 450: I've since found out what an unexpectedly great handling car the 450 is. It absolutely holds its own against some surprising competition on the "tail-of-the-dragon-like" roads in the mountains of northern Georgia...recently shocking the driver of an S2000 who couldn't shake me through the twisties there. This baby hustles well beyond its reputation.
There are few instances where the smaller engined car is equipped EXACTLY the same as the higher performance model and available with ALL the same options, but in the case of the R231 SL450 vs SL550, that is absolutely the fact. A well optioned SL450 is a truly amazing car and it was close to TWENTY GRAND LESS than the V8 and everything else was exactly the same. Add to that the better ride quality & handling and for me at least, the decision was a no-brainer. I would have ordered the 450 if it had been the same price as the 550.
To the original Question...it turns out that I might have bought it, even as a coupe. I had two cars in my sights: a facelift R231 450, and a base 911 Carrera coupe. I test drove both cars (2017s) on the same day. over the same roads, SL 450 first. My impressions were that the SL is just a seriously nice car to be inside of. The 911's interior is stark, and almost Tesla-bland by comparison. The 911 has an outrageously loud road/tire noise intrusion problem, brand new OEM spec Pirellis notwithstanding, though even with optional 20" wheels it did manage to ride just as well as the non-ABC Sl 450 did (which is just fine, btw). On the same stretch of rough, under-construction freeway, I had a normal conversation with the sales guy while in the SL, whereas in the 911 the sales guy and I were nearly shouting at each other. I was ready to buy a 911 coupe, so I guess I have to admit that I would have bought the SL even if its top did not go down. An added bonus with the SL 450: I've since found out what an unexpectedly great handling car the 450 is. It absolutely holds its own against some surprising competition on the "tail-of-the-dragon-like" roads in the mountains of northern Georgia...recently shocking the driver of an S2000 who couldn't shake me through the twisties there. This baby hustles well beyond its reputation.
Thank you for getting exactly what I was asking.
Since you mentioned the 911, I always wanted one since I first sat in one some 40+ years ago. Fast forward to the 991 series which still feels fantastic to sit in and I think the exterior is stunning. Then you read how the 991 model is "more of a GT" almost lacking sporting in some Porsche aficionado's eyes. Ok so I go to the dealer. Sit in it and the start it. The engine racket alone was enough to make me say in the words of Cramer, "I'm out". I have also read numerous reports of what you were saying and that is they are down right noisy inside. Not my idea of a long distance GT.
As we are now dialed in, how much exhaust noise is present in the cabin in comfort mode during light acceleration / steady state cruising? In other words my V6 powered E Class engine makes very little noise (which I really like about it) other than when I get on it . Can the same be said for the V6 powered R231s? Top up of course.
2019 SL450, 2019 E450 Luxury Trim Wagon, 2024 BMW I7 xDrive60
With the top up on my SL450, I find the exhaust note quite muted. That said, I have threatened to take mine to a muffler shop and have the butterfly valves removed, to make the car as quiet as possible. One of these days, I will also disconnect the noisemaker in the trunk.
I had a 2009 Carrera coupe. It was a fairly basic car with a manual transmission. Driving it was quite enjoyable and I never experienced any really loud tire or road noise. Of course, I opted for the smallest wheels, which I believe were 18’s.. I had the car at the same time I had my 2004 SL500. Once the newness wore off the 911, I found myself opting more and more for the SL when I wanted to have fun, so I sold the Porsche after only a year or so. I will say that driving a late model Porsche with a manual transmission is one of the great joys to those who appreciate mechanical excellence. I miss that particular thing about the 911, but I much prefer my SL450 in every other regard. Sporting cars really should have a retractable top, in my opinion.
Last edited by Streamliner; Dec 13, 2023 at 12:05 AM.
Good fried of mine had that vintage 911. I thought it road like ****. He made the mistake of driving across the country with his wife. A mistake he was sure never to repeat.
2019 SL450, 2019 E450 Luxury Trim Wagon, 2024 BMW I7 xDrive60
Originally Posted by MBNUT1
Good fried of mine had that vintage 911. I thought it road like ****. He made the mistake of driving across the country with his wife. A mistake he was sure never to repeat.
The earlier 911’s were wonderful cars for their time. I had several of what I feel were the best ones, from 1970 through 1973, a couple of coupes, but mostly Targa models. As much as I loved those cars back then, they were not big on creature comforts. I did have an Aubergine 911E Targa that had the factory Recaro seats in it and it was quite comfortable, but my body had way fewer miles on it back then.
When I purchased my R231 was looking for a 1970’s or 1980’s Mercedes Benz 450 SL that was either fully restored or well a well preserved original.
I found several examples and looked at and test drove them, and I was impressed with some, and disappointed with others. One particular restoration company, Unique Mercedes of Palm Beach Florida has several beautiful examples in undergoing full restoration work.
I realized that I do not have the time to tinker with, work on, and maintain a 50 year old Mercedes Benz classic at this point in my career and life. Definitely worth looking into buying a classic car again when I retire.
Much to my surprise, several cars from the modern day era were included in my search. Thankfully the one that I was looking for (color & interior and engine size) showed up very close to my area and after much thought and running the numbers, the deal was made and it came home with me.
I’ve been very happy with the purchase and impressed with how well built and refined the R231 is.
Is this car a sports car?
I view this fine automobile as a “personal sports luxury vehicle “ IMHO.
'06 MB S55 AMG; '04 Audi Allroad 4.2; '05 BMW M3 Conv.; '92 MB 500E
Originally Posted by MBNUT1
The reason for the question is that I am trying to figure find the most refined Mercedes with the shortest length. I would really like a W222 and may ultimately end up there but the size if it as wasted on me and will be a hassle parking it in my garage. I was looking at an S Coupe yesterday and it is bigger than I prefer and they also had a R231 and I sat in it and it felt really good to me and I really like the shorter length. Don't really need the back seat. This particular car's carfax showed that it had been in an accident so knowing that I wasn't going to buy it I did not test drive it. Not really interested in a convertible and given the choice I would pick a coupe but thinking that the R231 might be the nicest small car regardless. Wondering what others thoughts are in this regard.
TIA
No I would not. I don't like Coupes and have come to conclude that any 2 door car must be a drop top for me.
Now, to the question you didn't ask but are wondering... find a C207 E550 with the M278 motor, loaded with leather (not MBTex) and have a nice day.
2019 SL450, 2019 E450 Luxury Trim Wagon, 2024 BMW I7 xDrive60
Originally Posted by maw1124
No I would not. I don't like Coupes and have come to conclude that any 2 door car must be a drop top for me.
Now, to the question you didn't ask but are wondering... find a C207 E550 with the M278 motor, loaded with leather (not MBTex) and have a nice day.
Your other choice is the CL class cars.
maw
Yes, BUT………The retractable hardtop is a game changer and just beats the heck out of a fabric top in comfort, security and, in my opinion, appearance.
Sorry guys, but you know I can’t pass up an opportunity to post photos.
2019 SL450, 2019 E450 Luxury Trim Wagon, 2024 BMW I7 xDrive60
Originally Posted by MichaelRPack
When I purchased my R231 was looking for a 1970’s or 1980’s Mercedes Benz 450 SL that was either fully restored or well a well preserved original………….
My first SL was a slightly used, 1972 350SL. In 1979, I got my first new one, a 450SL, Signal Red with Bamboo interior. I loved that car, but when the 560SL’s came out in 1986, the driving characteristics were greatly improved, so I got one, again in Signal Red with Palomino leather. That was another car that I just absolutely adored. However, of all the various years, the R231 is the best and, in my opinion, the LAST true SL. The current vehicle sporting the SL moniker is an SLINO!
And in other news, my brother in law just picked up a RR Corniche last week. Now that is a 'vert. Burgundy with tan interior. Calls for a Bourbon Trail drive in the spring, to Kenneland!
And in other news, my brother in law just picked up a RR Corniche last week. Now that is a 'vert. Burgundy with tan interior. Calls for a Bourbon Trail drive in the spring, to Kenneland!
However, to this day, I still miss my R231. Last of the great touring cars. My E450 wagon is just amazing, but damn, why am I still looking for R231s!
Day 1
Last edited by TennesseeZ4; Dec 13, 2023 at 11:32 PM.
2019 SL450, 2019 E450 Luxury Trim Wagon, 2024 BMW I7 xDrive60
Originally Posted by TennesseeZ4
And in other news, my brother in law just picked up a RR Corniche last week. Now that is a 'vert. Burgundy with tan interior. Calls for a Bourbon Trail drive in the spring, to Kenneland!
You guys keep talking about cars I’ve had. In a fit of absolute insanity, I bought a brand new 1987 Corniche convertible. Driving it made you feel as though you were on a float in the Rose Parade. Other than looking beautiful, it was one of the worst cars I’ve ever owned. Honestly, the thing was a piece of junk. The Honda Prelude I also had at the same time was a tremendously better car. My RR looked just like this one:
2019 SL450, 2019 E450 Luxury Trim Wagon, 2024 BMW I7 xDrive60
Originally Posted by TennesseeZ4
However, to this day, I still miss my R231. Last of the great touring cars. My E450 wagon is just amazing, but damn, why am I still looking for R231s!Day 1
I thought your SL was one of the nicest color combinations I’ve ever seen.
You guys keep talking about cars I’ve had. In a fit of absolute insanity, I bought a brand new 1987 Corniche convertible. Driving it made you feel as though you were on a float in the Rose Parade. Other than looking beautiful, it was one of the worst cars I’ve ever owned. Honestly, the thing was a piece of junk. The Honda Prelude I also had at the same time was a tremendously better car. My RR looked just like this one:
Rather like my sentiments on owning a boat / yacht / sailing boat, I am happy to know someone who owns one, yet allows me to enjoy it!
...As we are now dialed in, how much exhaust noise is present in the cabin in comfort mode during light acceleration / steady state cruising? In other words my V6 powered E Class engine makes very little noise (which I really like about it) other than when I get on it . Can the same be said for the V6 powered R231s? Top up of course.
Back to your original question, if the SL had been a soft-top convertible, I would never have considered it. Been there, done that. No more. That's why I haven't even looked at the new SLino. In defense of that base 911 coupe, I will say that engine noise in its interior was actually surprisingly low and perfectly acceptable, to me...it was strictly the road/tire noise that was so off-putting. However I must point out that I have a very low need for a lot of engine noise from my cars, in general. I'd far rather that they were as quiet as possible, so that exercising them draws as little attention as possible. The quality of the engine sound is rather important, though. The 450's V6 sounds much more refined to this lifelong Corvette owner than the NASCAR soundtrack you get from most V8s, IMO. The Comfort-mode sound level inside the SL 450 (top up or down) is quite low. It's very conducive to relaxed touring in that setting, or Eco mode. In Sport, or Sport+ modes, however, things get noticeably more exciting, aurally speaking. Definitely louder, perhaps a bit more than necessary, but still far from obnoxious. I don't know if fuel economy matters to you or not (it does to me, when touring), but my SL delivers 31mpg while cruising on the highway...and not all that slowly, either.
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.
