SL/R232: The new SL was at Pebble Beach
#1
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Mercedes G63 AMG, Ferrari California
The new SL was at Pebble Beach
Unfortunately no photos, the phones were locked up.
You were able to enter a room and view the upcoming SL model - stunner! As previewed 2+2 sitting (tight for an adult but kids should fit).
There will be 2 variants coming to the States now, SL55 and SL63… more to come.
The car is highly optioned with almost no options to add other the CC brakes, premium sound system, and a few other.
The soft top SL is back…
You were able to enter a room and view the upcoming SL model - stunner! As previewed 2+2 sitting (tight for an adult but kids should fit).
There will be 2 variants coming to the States now, SL55 and SL63… more to come.
The car is highly optioned with almost no options to add other the CC brakes, premium sound system, and a few other.
The soft top SL is back…
#3
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Mercedes/Mazda/Genesis
There seems to have been two people now saying 55 and not 53, is MB returning to this nomenclature?
I’m hoping for an I6 in the 55, but wouldn’t be surprised to see the M139 since its an AMG engine technically.
I’m hoping for an I6 in the 55, but wouldn’t be surprised to see the M139 since its an AMG engine technically.
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2020 GLC300 -2013 Sl550 - 1997 SL600
If I remember right, I believe that one in PB was an SL63. To be honest, I was talking to the Mercedes guys and looking at some different aspects of the car but didn’t pay too much attention to badging. But the guy I went with noticed the badging was SL63.
Last edited by crconsulting; 08-16-2021 at 02:44 PM.
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#6
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![Cool](https://mbworld.org/forums/images/icons/icon6.gif)
Unfortunately no photos, the phones were locked up.
You were able to enter a room and view the upcoming SL model - stunner! As previewed 2+2 sitting (tight for an adult but kids should fit).
There will be 2 variants coming to the States now, SL55 and SL63… more to come.
The car is highly optioned with almost no options to add other the CC brakes, premium sound system, and a few other.
The soft top SL is back…
You were able to enter a room and view the upcoming SL model - stunner! As previewed 2+2 sitting (tight for an adult but kids should fit).
There will be 2 variants coming to the States now, SL55 and SL63… more to come.
The car is highly optioned with almost no options to add other the CC brakes, premium sound system, and a few other.
The soft top SL is back…
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mortgagemaster (10-18-2021)
#7
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2013 650i Coupe, 2010 IS250 AWD, 1999 S500
The SL has never been a substitute for the S Coupe/Cabrio, though I don't see how the tech in the S Coupe could be superior to a new SL. One is a roadster the other was a true 4-seat Cabriolet. Where are you getting this from that the R231 was based on the E-Class chassis? The SL hasn't been based on anything related to the since the R129 days.
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#8
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The SL has never been a substitute for the S Coupe/Cabrio, though I don't see how the tech in the S Coupe could be superior to a new SL. One is a roadster the other was a true 4-seat Cabriolet. Where are you getting this from that the R231 was based on the E-Class chassis? The SL hasn't been based on anything related to the since the R129 days.
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See more here: https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/...en-generation/
A few years ago, MB had the choice of 6(!) different convertibles: SLK, SL, C, E, S and AMG GT Roadster. From now on, there will be only 2(!): C/E and SL. Where the new SL is more an upgraded AMG GT Roadster (in size, driving, etc), and is different class then a SL imho, let alone a >5 meter long S cabrio.
Nothing wrong with that, it certainly will be a major upgrade from the AMG GT Roadster, but since MB tries to get all 6 target groups in the 2 open cars left, they certainly will loose customers that are not in for a roadster, but want a large, luxourious but sporty converible. For example air supsension will not be offered on the new SL, it will a have smaller wheelbase then the current SL. etc.
Last edited by HAWKiS63; 09-29-2021 at 04:31 AM.
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Mercedes/Mazda/Genesis
As I understand it is moving from the E-class platform to the MSA platform (also used for the new AMG GT): https://mercedesblog.com/first-co-dr...w-mercedes-sl/
See more here: https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/...en-generation/
A few years ago, MB had the choice of 6(!) different convertibles: SLK, SL, C, E, S and AMG GT Roadster. From now on, there will be only 2(!): C/E and SL. Where the new SL is more an upgraded AMG GT Roadster (in size, driving, etc), and is different class then a SL imho, let alone a >5 meter long S cabrio.
Nothing wrong with that, it certainly will be a major upgrade from the AMG GT Roadster, but since MB tries to get all 6 target groups in the 2 open cars left, they certainly will loose customers that are not in for a roadster, but want a large, luxourious but sporty converible. For example air supsension will not be offered on the new SL, it will a have smaller wheelbase then the current SL. etc.
See more here: https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/...en-generation/
A few years ago, MB had the choice of 6(!) different convertibles: SLK, SL, C, E, S and AMG GT Roadster. From now on, there will be only 2(!): C/E and SL. Where the new SL is more an upgraded AMG GT Roadster (in size, driving, etc), and is different class then a SL imho, let alone a >5 meter long S cabrio.
Nothing wrong with that, it certainly will be a major upgrade from the AMG GT Roadster, but since MB tries to get all 6 target groups in the 2 open cars left, they certainly will loose customers that are not in for a roadster, but want a large, luxourious but sporty converible. For example air supsension will not be offered on the new SL, it will a have smaller wheelbase then the current SL. etc.
Dealer employees who attended product training have confirmed yesterday that both length and wheelbase are increased compared to the R231. No official details on the type of suspension, but according to many at the event, an all new suspension setup with front-axle lift will debut on the new SL.
#10
There was a video posted today, since removed, from a blogger at the testing track in Birmingham, Alabama, who says both the SL55 and 63 are V8s with on a completely new aluminum frame that is a bit longer and wider than the R231. Had some great views of the interior and exterior of the cars.
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2013 650i Coupe, 2010 IS250 AWD, 1999 S500
As I understand it is moving from the E-class platform to the MSA platform (also used for the new AMG GT): https://mercedesblog.com/first-co-dr...w-mercedes-sl/
See more here: https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/...en-generation/
A few years ago, MB had the choice of 6(!) different convertibles: SLK, SL, C, E, S and AMG GT Roadster. From now on, there will be only 2(!): C/E and SL. Where the new SL is more an upgraded AMG GT Roadster (in size, driving, etc), and is different class then a SL imho, let alone a >5 meter long S cabrio.
Nothing wrong with that, it certainly will be a major upgrade from the AMG GT Roadster, but since MB tries to get all 6 target groups in the 2 open cars left, they certainly will loose customers that are not in for a roadster, but want a large, luxourious but sporty converible. For example air supsension will not be offered on the new SL, it will a have smaller wheelbase then the current SL. etc.
See more here: https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/...en-generation/
A few years ago, MB had the choice of 6(!) different convertibles: SLK, SL, C, E, S and AMG GT Roadster. From now on, there will be only 2(!): C/E and SL. Where the new SL is more an upgraded AMG GT Roadster (in size, driving, etc), and is different class then a SL imho, let alone a >5 meter long S cabrio.
Nothing wrong with that, it certainly will be a major upgrade from the AMG GT Roadster, but since MB tries to get all 6 target groups in the 2 open cars left, they certainly will loose customers that are not in for a roadster, but want a large, luxourious but sporty converible. For example air supsension will not be offered on the new SL, it will a have smaller wheelbase then the current SL. etc.
M
Last edited by Germancar1; 09-29-2021 at 04:54 PM.
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js_cls (09-29-2021)
#12
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I don't understand why people keep calling it a roadster.....it is not a roadster IMHO.
Roadster defines a vehicle that has an open top, two doors, two seats, and is made for sport. .
Roadster defines a vehicle that has an open top, two doors, two seats, and is made for sport. .
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2013 650i Coupe, 2010 IS250 AWD, 1999 S500
The SL has always been a roadster. Two useless seats in the back doesn't change that nor does it make it a 4-seat Cabriolet replacement. Sport Light is the name of the vehicle, so yeah sport and as AMG is in charge of this one, Sport is the name of the game here.
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AMG GTC Roadster, E63s Ed.1, M8 Comp. Coupe
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AMG GTC Roadster, E63s Ed.1, M8 Comp. Coupe
I don't see what the point is here honestly. You guys here get too caught up in what platform something is on and not looking at the vehicle itself. NO one would have known what platform the SL was based on unless you were told. The article says that it was based on the E-Class platform, I've never seen or known that to be the case. Why would the SL need air suspension? It's never had it before and most sporty cars of this ilk don't have air suspension. The R232's wheelbase is like 4 inches longer than the current SL. Your information is just totally wrong man. You're trying to create an issue where there isn't one without having seen or driven the car yet. The SL and S Coupe/Cabrio are separate cars, this about Mercedes trying to put all open air customers in one car is just made up media or MB marketing nonsense. It isn't going to happen. A 2-seat roadster, even with 2 for show rear seats, can't replace a 4-seat Cabrio like the S Cabriolet totally. A SL is an SL, not an S Cabrio or SLK or anything else. If there were so many buyers that wanted a large convertible like the S Cabrio then they would have bought enough of them to keep from cancelling it.
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It's a small shrinking niche and Mercedes may not need more than 1 or 2 convertibles...
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2013 650i Coupe, 2010 IS250 AWD, 1999 S500
Sad reality is that even for Rolls Royce and Bentley, purveyor of classic luxury 4 seat cabriolets sees their customers buy their SUV's instead. Rolls Royce has already discontinued their Dawn here and globally in 2023. We'll see if they get replaced...
It's a small shrinking niche and Mercedes may not need more than 1 or 2 convertibles...
It's a small shrinking niche and Mercedes may not need more than 1 or 2 convertibles...
M
#17
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However, you need to look up the definition of a roadster.. A roadster has two seats in the definition of almost anywhere you want to research. Google it. Maybe not 100% of the definitions call it two seater cars, but almost all definitions of a roadster define it just the same as I did above. Look it up.
Anybody can call it one....but it does not meet the definition.
#18
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And a coupe by definition has 2 doors, yet everyone makes 4 door coupes now. Go figure.
I look forward to seeing the new SL; I thought it was just going to be a new version of the AMG GT, which is a slight turnoff to those who liked the size and feel of the last R230/231, but if you guys are saying it's a little longer than the R230/231, then that's somewhat interesting....
I look forward to seeing the new SL; I thought it was just going to be a new version of the AMG GT, which is a slight turnoff to those who liked the size and feel of the last R230/231, but if you guys are saying it's a little longer than the R230/231, then that's somewhat interesting....
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AMG GTC Roadster, E63s Ed.1, M8 Comp. Coupe
I will not argue the Sport Light part of your comment.. I never said it was not Sport Light.
However, you need to look up the definition of a roadster.. A roadster has two seats in the definition of almost anywhere you want to research. Google it. Maybe not 100% of the definitions call it two seater cars, but almost all definitions of a roadster define it just the same as I did above. Look it up.
Anybody can call it one....but it does not meet the definition.
However, you need to look up the definition of a roadster.. A roadster has two seats in the definition of almost anywhere you want to research. Google it. Maybe not 100% of the definitions call it two seater cars, but almost all definitions of a roadster define it just the same as I did above. Look it up.
Anybody can call it one....but it does not meet the definition.
There clearly wasn't an uproar before when the R107 had them and that was the second longest built Mercedes model in history... No need to cherry-pick just the last 2 SL models and call them the "real" SL
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And a coupe by definition has 2 doors, yet everyone makes 4 door coupes now. Go figure.
I look forward to seeing the new SL; I thought it was just going to be a new version of the AMG GT, which is a slight turnoff to those who liked the size and feel of the last R230/231, but if you guys are saying it's a little longer than the R230/231, then that's somewhat interesting....
I look forward to seeing the new SL; I thought it was just going to be a new version of the AMG GT, which is a slight turnoff to those who liked the size and feel of the last R230/231, but if you guys are saying it's a little longer than the R230/231, then that's somewhat interesting....
A friend of ours saw it in Pebble Beach but didn't like it due to its overhangs but I am looking forward to seeing and driving it. The car was unfortunately not on display at Laguna Seca the last few days
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#21
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I will not argue the Sport Light part of your comment.. I never said it was not Sport Light.
However, you need to look up the definition of a roadster.. A roadster has two seats in the definition of almost anywhere you want to research. Google it. Maybe not 100% of the definitions call it two seater cars, but almost all definitions of a roadster define it just the same as I did above. Look it up.
Anybody can call it one....but it does not meet the definition.
However, you need to look up the definition of a roadster.. A roadster has two seats in the definition of almost anywhere you want to research. Google it. Maybe not 100% of the definitions call it two seater cars, but almost all definitions of a roadster define it just the same as I did above. Look it up.
Anybody can call it one....but it does not meet the definition.
M
#22
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I don't see what the point is here honestly. You guys here get too caught up in what platform something is on and not looking at the vehicle itself. NO one would have known what platform the SL was based on unless you were told. The article says that it was based on the E-Class platform, I've never seen or known that to be the case. Why would the SL need air suspension? It's never had it before and most sporty cars of this ilk don't have air suspension. The R232's wheelbase is like 4 inches longer than the current SL. Your information is just totally wrong man. You're trying to create an issue where there isn't one without having seen or driven the car yet. The SL and S Coupe/Cabrio are separate cars, this about Mercedes trying to put all open air customers in one car is just made up media or MB marketing nonsense. It isn't going to happen. A 2-seat roadster, even with 2 for show rear seats, can't replace a 4-seat Cabrio like the S Cabriolet totally. A SL is an SL, not an S Cabrio or SLK or anything else. If there were so many buyers that wanted a large convertible like the S Cabrio then they would have bought enough of them to keep from cancelling it.
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And yes, I did see the new SL myself, in real life, inside and outside (without any wrap), but did sign a NDA, so I can not disclose any factual or technical details before October 20th (official presentation date), but only what my first impression is comparing it to the previous SL and the S cabriolet.
If you want to see a small part of the front, look here: https://mercedesblog.com/first-photo...enz-sl-leaked/
#23
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And a coupe by definition has 2 doors, yet everyone makes 4 door coupes now. Go figure.
I look forward to seeing the new SL; I thought it was just going to be a new version of the AMG GT, which is a slight turnoff to those who liked the size and feel of the last R230/231, but if you guys are saying it's a little longer than the R230/231, then that's somewhat interesting....
I look forward to seeing the new SL; I thought it was just going to be a new version of the AMG GT, which is a slight turnoff to those who liked the size and feel of the last R230/231, but if you guys are saying it's a little longer than the R230/231, then that's somewhat interesting....
That the MB marketing department decided to call it the new SL is purely their call. Nothing wrong with that, but just so you know what to expect. It is like the BMW 8-series, which in fact is "just" a new 6-series, so a sportier coupe/convertible version of the 5-series (comparable with the E Coupe/Cabriolet). Nothing wrong with that, but don't expect a 7-serie coupe/convertible in quality, etc. (like the S coupe/cabrio).
Last edited by HAWKiS63; 10-02-2021 at 09:26 AM.
#24
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So.....they were not selling enough of the true SL roadster or the S Cabrio. So, the idea was marketing decided to reinvent the S Cabrio, let AMG play with it, make an upgraded S car, and slap an iconic SL badge on it. Problem solved. Move two model buyers into one S model and maybe the sales will be enough.
#25
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So.....they were not selling enough of the true SL roadster or the S Cabrio. So, the idea was marketing decided to reinvent the S Cabrio, let AMG play with it, make an upgraded S car, and slap an iconic SL badge on it. Problem solved. Move two model buyers into one S model and maybe the sales will be enough.