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Affalterbach. The new Mercedes-AMG SL, the new edition of an icon, returns to its roots with a classic soft top and sporty character. At the same time, the luxurious roadster as a 2+2 seater is particularly suitable for everyday use and puts its power down on the road with all-wheel drive for the first time. High-tech components such as the AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension with active anti-roll stabilisation, rear-axle steering, the optionally available AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system and the standard-fit DIGITAL LIGHT with projection function sharpen the sporty profile. In combination with the AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine, this results in a driving experience of the highest order. As a consistent Performance Luxury model, Mercedes-AMG in Affalterbach has developed the SL completely independently. Two models with AMG V8 engines will kick off the market launch.
Almost 70 years ago, a sports car launched in Stuttgart immediately became a legend. The vision of expanding the potential of the Mercedes-Benz brand through motor racing successes produced the first SL as a result - a road-going racing sports car. Shortly after its début in 1952, the 300 SL (internal designation W 194) reaped success after success on the race tracks of the world. In its first year, it achieved, among other things, a spectacular one-two victory in the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans and even took the first four places in the Nürburgring Grand Jubilee Prize for sports cars. Its successes quickly make the SL a legend.
The successful racing car was followed in 1954 by the 300 SL production sports car (W 198), which is called the "Gullwing" because of its unusual doors. In 1999, a jury of motoring journalists voted it the "Sports Car of the Century". Other highlights of the model history include the "Pagoda" (W 113, 1963-1971), the evergreen R 107 (1971-1989), which was built for 18 years, and its successor, the R 129, which is considered an automotive sculpture because of its striking wedge shape. The abbreviation "SL" to this day thus stands for one of the few genuine automotive icons in the world.
In the decades-long development history from full-blooded racing car to open-top luxury sports car, the new Mercedes-AMG SL now sets another milestone. It combines the sportiness of the original SL with the unique luxury and technological excellence that characterise modern Mercedes models.
"The SL is an icon: For almost 70 years, the distinctive sports car has delighted Mercedes customers of every generation around the world. With the rebirth of the roadster from Mercedes-AMG, the new SL more than ever remains the symbol of this timeless fascination", says Britta Seeger, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Mercedes-Benz AG, responsible for Mercedes-Benz Cars Marketing and Sales.
"The new SL combines the sporty genes of the original SL with the driving performance typical of AMG. At the same time, it offers luxury and comfort at the absolute top level. This combination is unique in the sports car segment and is also reflected in the interior - where the highest levels of comfort and quality meet the right helping of sportiness. The high-quality combination of analogue world and state-of-the-art digital equipment makes it clear that the new SL is the rebirth of an icon for the modern era", says Philipp Schiemer, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
"With the new SL, we have created a repositioning of the iconic SL design. The expressively modelled exterior conveys a light and purist impression and brings sensual beauty and extravagant design into perfect harmony", says Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer Daimler Group.
"We at Mercedes-AMG consider it a great honour to have had the privilege to develop the new edition of this sports car icon. When we were tasked with the overall development of the new SL, we were able to start from scratch without building on an existing structure. We are proud of the result, which once again demonstrates the high level of engineering expertise in Affalterbach. The new 2+2 concept combines agile driving dynamics with a high level of comfort and unrestricted suitability for everyday use", says Jochen Hermann, Chief Technical Officer of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
With its exciting design, state-of-the-art technology and outstanding driving characteristics, the new Mercedes-AMG SL sets standards in the luxury sports car segment. The exterior design fascinates with a perfect triad: It combines the modern Mercedes-Benz design philosophy of sensual purity with the sportiness typical of AMG and characteristic details. The two power bulges on the bonnet are just one of numerous reminiscences of the first SL generation. The interplay of light and shadow makes the overall appearance visually light and low. So it is clear at first glance that the new SL has returned to its sporty roots.
Exterior design: balanced design with sporty genes
Characteristic features of the body design are the long wheelbase, the short overhangs, the long bonnet, the passenger compartment set back with a strongly raked windscreen and the powerful rear end. This results in the typical SL proportions. Together with the voluminously sculpted wheel arches and the large alloy wheels flush with the outer skin, they give the roadster its powerful, dynamic appearance. When closed, the seamlessly integrated soft top underscores the purist, sporty impression.
The AMG-specific radiator grille emphasises the effect of width of the front and, with its 14 vertical slats, cites the ancestor of all SL models, the legendary 300 SL racing sports car of 1952. Other distinctive design elements include the slim, sharply outlined DIGITAL LIGHT LED headlamps and the equally extremely slim LED rear lamps.
Interior design: Performance Luxury with "hyperanalogue" cockpit
The interior of the new Mercedes-AMG SL transforms the tradition of the first 300 SL Roadster into the modern era. The new edition perfectly combines sporting virtues and luxury. Fine materials and meticulous workmanship underline the standard of the highest level of comfort. The cockpit design, right down to the adjustable central display in the centre console, is focused on the driver. At the same time, the completely new interior space concept with 2+2 seats offers more room and functionality than before. The rear seats increase the daily practicality and offer space for people up to 1.50 metres tall.
The minimalist interior of the 300 SL Roadster, equipped with high-quality materials, inspired the designers in the interior design of the new model: The result is an exciting combination of analogue geometry and digital world - called "hyperanalogue". This is exemplified by the fully digital instrument cluster, which is integrated into a three-dimensional visor. The standard MBUX infotainment system offers a choice of several specific display styles and different modes.
One of many highlights in the interior of the new SL is the sculptural seat design of the standard, electrically adjustable AMG sports seats. The head restraints are integrated into the backrest and emphasise the sporty character. The AIRSCARF is on board as standard: Warm air flows into the passenger compartment from air outlets in the head restraints and wraps around the head and neck area of the driver and front passenger like a scarf. Perfect ergonomics and various progressive seam and quilting patterns complete the symbiosis of high-tech, performance and luxury. AMG Performance seats are available as an option.
The latest generation MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) is intuitive to operate and capable of learning. It offers numerous functional contents and the operating structure of the second-generation MBUX system, which debuted in the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class. In the SL, AMG-specific content is added extensively in five display styles. Exclusive menu items such as "AMG Performance" or "AMG TRACK PACE" also emphasise the sporty character.
Body shell: new roadster architecture with composite aluminium structure
The 2021 SL is based on a completely new 2+2-seater vehicle architecture developed by Mercedes-AMG. The chassis is designed as a lightweight composite aluminium structure and consists of an aluminium space frame with a self-supporting structure. The design guarantees maximum rigidity and is thus the perfect basis for precise driving dynamics, high comfort, optimal packaging and sporty body proportions. The new body shell was created - as with the first SL in 1952 - literally on a blank sheet of paper: Not a single component comes from the predecessor SL or any other model such as the AMG GT Roadster.
The aim of the body shell architecture is to realise the driving performance typical of AMG with a focus on lateral and longitudinal dynamics, while at the same time meeting the high standards on comfort and safety. In the new SL, the intelligent material mix enables the highest possible rigidity at a low weight. Optimised material cross-sections and sophisticated component shapes create space for the comprehensive comfort and safety features as well as the soft top. The materials used include aluminium, magnesium, fibre composites and steel, from which the windscreen frame, for example, is made. This serves as roll-over protection in conjunction with the roll bar system behind the rear seats, which can be extended at lightning speed when needed.
Compared to the previous model series, the torsional rigidity of the body shell structure increased by 18 percent. The transverse rigidity is 50 percent higher than the already outstanding value of the AMG GT Roadster. The longitudinal rigidity is 40 percent higher. The weight of the plain body shell is around 270 kilograms. Together with the low centre of gravity, the targeted lightweight construction ensures outstanding driving dynamics.
Active aerodynamics: for perfect balance and high efficiency
A key development focus of the new SL was high aerodynamic efficiency, specifically: a perfect balance between low drag and reduced lift. Here, the luxurious roadster benefits from Mercedes-AMG's wide-ranging motorsport expertise and from extensive active aerodynamic elements at the front and rear. All streamlining elements are seamlessly integrated into the exterior design. Further detailed measures reduce the drag coefficient to Cd 0.31 - an excellent figure for open-top sports cars.
The SL's aerodynamics meet the complex requirements of handling stability, drag, cooling and wind noise. Regardless of whether the top is down or up, the vehicle character and driving characteristics remain unchanged. The even aerobalance helps to defuse critical driving situations, such as a sudden evasive manoeuvre at high speed.
AIRPANEL air control system: two-piece for the first time
A technical highlight in the aero development: the two-piece, active air control system AIRPANEL. The first piece operates with vertical louvres hidden behind the lower air intake in the front apron. The second piece is located behind the upper air intake and has horizontal louvres. Normally all louvres are closed. This position reduces drag and allows the air to be directed specifically towards the underbody. This further reduces front lift. Only when certain temperatures on predefined components are reached and the demand for cooling air is particularly high do the louvres open (the second system only from 180 km/h) and allow maximum cooling air to flow to the heat exchangers.
Another active component is the retractable rear spoiler seamlessly integrated into the boot lid. It changes its position depending on the driving status. In doing so, the control software takes into account numerous parameters: It factors the driving speed, the longitudinal and lateral acceleration and the steering speed into the calculation. The spoiler assumes five different angular positions from 80 km/h to either optimise handling stability or reduce drag.
The optional active aerodynamic element, which is hidden in the underbody in front of the engine, also contributes to the improved handling. This carbon profile, which weighs around two kilograms, reacts to the setting of the AMG driving modes and automatically extends downwards by around 40 millimetres at a speed of 80 km/h. The AMG driving modes are then activated. This creates the so-called Venturi effect, which sucks the car additionally to the road surface and reduces front-axle lift. The driver feels this positively in the steering: The SL can be steered even more precisely into bends and tracks even more stably.
A range of aerodynamically optimised alloy wheels with diameters of 19, 20 or 21 inches is available for the SL, reducing drag through less turbulence. Particularly sophisticated are 20-inch wheels with plastic aero rings, which also save weight.
The soft top: less weight and low centre of gravity
The sportier positioning of the new SL also suggested the decision for an electric soft top instead of the previous metal vario roof. The 21-kilogram reduction in weight and the resulting lower centre of gravity have a positive effect on driving dynamics and handling. The space- and weight-saving Z-fold makes it possible to dispense with a conventional soft-top compartment cover. The front roof cap ensures that the open soft top is flush with the surface in its final position. At the same time, the developers were faced with the task of maintaining the high suitability for everyday use and the exemplary noise comfort. The three-layer design consists of a tightly stretched outer shell, precisely crafted roof liner and the acoustic mat made of high-quality 450 g/m² material inserted in between.
Opening and closing takes only about 15 seconds and is possible up to a speed of 60 km/h. The soft top is operated using the switch panel in the centre console or the multimedia touchscreen, on which an animation shows how the process is progressing.
Engine, transmission and all-wheel drive: great variety and more choice than ever before
At market launch, the new SL starts with two output levels of the AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine. The engines are assembled purely by hand at the company's site in Affalterbach according to the "One Man, One Engine" principle. In the top model SL 63 4MATIC+ (combined fuel consumption 12.7-11.8 l/100 km, combined CO2 emissions 288-268 g/km)[1] the engine develops 430 kW (585 hp) and provides a maximum torque of 800 Nm over a wide rev range from 2500 to 4500 rpm. Accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h takes only 3.6 seconds, the top speed is 315 km/h. In the SL 55 4MATIC+ (combined fuel consumption 12.7-11.8 l/100 km, combined CO2 emissions 288-268 g/km), the V8 unit develops an output of 350 kW (476 hp) and a peak torque of 700 Nm. The sprint from standstill to 100 km/h takes 3.9 seconds, the top speed is 295 km/h.
For use in the SL, the engine received a new oil pan, repositioned intercoolers and active crankcase ventilation. The intake and exhaust ducts have been optimised for even more effective gas exchange, and the exhaust gas routing for the catalytic converter box and petrol particulate filter has been enlarged. The developers achieved the increased output of the SL 63 4MATIC+ primarily through higher boost pressure and greater air flow, as well as modified engine software. To sum up, the eight-cylinder engine thrills with its exceptional power delivery and powerful acceleration in all engine speed ranges combined with maximum efficiency for low consumption and emission values.
Performance hybrid in development
At a later date, we will also offer the SL as a powerful Performance hybrid drive. The AMG E PERFORMANCE drive strategy is based on the guiding principle of offering an electrified powertrain that further enhances driving dynamics while also being highly efficient.
Wet start-up clutch for the transmission
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9G transmission combines an emotionally appealing gearshift experience with extremely short shift times and is specially adapted to the requirements of the new SL. A wet start-off clutch replaces the torque converter. It reduces weight and, thanks to its lower inertia, optimises response to accelerator pedal commands, especially during spurts and load changes.
More traction and handling stability: fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive
For the first time in its almost 70-year history, the SL is available with a drive system acting on all four wheels. The two V8 models are equipped with AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive technology as standard. This intelligent system combines the advantages of different drive concepts: the fully variable torque distribution to the front and rear axles ensures optimal traction right up to the physical limit. The driver is also able to rely on high handling stability and a high level of safety under all conditions.
Suspension and brakes: Multi-link front axle, active anti-roll stabilisation and optimal deceleration
The SL 55 4MATIC+ is equipped as standard with a newly developed AMG RIDE CONTROL steel suspension with particularly capable aluminium shock absorbers and lightweight coil springs. For the first time, a series-production Mercedes-AMG vehicle is fitted with a multi-link front axle with five links arranged entirely within the rim. This significantly improves the kinematics. At the rear axle, a 5-link design likewise controls the wheels.
The innovative AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension with active, hydraulic anti-roll stabilisation makes its début in the SL 63 4MATIC+. Biggest innovation: Active hydraulic elements replace the conventional mechanical anti-roll bars and compensate for rolling movements of the new SL in fractions of a second. The system enables optimal steering and load-change behaviour with AMG-typical driving characteristics in terms of dynamics, precision and feedback for the driver. At the same time, it increases ride comfort when driving in a straight line and over bumps.
The newly developed AMG high-performance composite braking system guarantees excellent deceleration values and precise control. It impresses with short braking distances, sensitive response and high stability - even under extreme stress. The new composite brake discs are lighter than before and take up less space, which is used for even better brake cooling. The directional perforation is also new: In addition to the additional weight saving and better heat dissipation, this solution scores points with a faster response in wet conditions as well as better pad cleaning after braking manoeuvres.
Active rear-axle steering: combines agility and stability
For the first time in its long history, the SL is equipped with active rear-axle steering as standard. Depending on the speed, the rear wheels steer either in the opposite direction (up to 100 km/h) or in the same direction (faster than 100 km/h) as the front wheels. The system thus enables both agile and stable handling - characteristics that are in contrast to each other without rear-axle steering. Other advantages include easier vehicle control at the limits and less steering effort because the front-wheel steering ratio is more direct.
Six driving modes and AMG DYNAMICS: from comfortable to dynamic
The six AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes "Slippery", "Comfort", "Sport", "Sport +", "Individual" and "RACE" (standard for SL 63 4MATIC+, included in the optional AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package for SL 55 4MATIC+) enable a wide spread of vehicle characteristics from comfortable to dynamic. The individual driving modes offer an individual driving experience, precisely tailored to different driving conditions. As a feature of the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes, the SL models also feature AMG DYNAMICS. This integrated vehicle dynamics control extends the stabilising functions of ESP® with agility-enhancing intervention in the all-wheel control, steering characteristics and additional ESP® functions. When cornering at speed, for example, brief braking intervention at the inner rear wheel generates a defined yawing motion around the vertical axis for responsive and precise entry into the bend. The spectrum ranges from extremely stable to highly dynamic.
SL range of equipment: great variety for an individual appearance
The equipment details and the numerous options offer a wide range of individualisation for the most diverse customer wishes - from sporty-dynamic to luxurious-elegant. Twelve paint colours including the two exclusive SL paints Hyper Blue metallic and MANUFAKTUR Monza Grey magno, three roof colour variants and numerous new wheel designs make the choice a pleasure. Three exterior design packages are available to further sharpen the look and make it either more elegant or more dynamic. The SL 55 4MATIC+ runs on 19-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels as standard, optionally in silver or matt black. The SL 63 4MATIC+ sits on 20-inch AMG 5-twin-spoke alloy wheels. The range of wheels includes a total of nine different variants. They include two aerodynamically optimised 20-inch options in 5-twin-spoke or multi-spoke design. The range is rounded off with 21-inch AMG alloy wheels in a 10-spoke design and 21-inch AMG forged wheels in a 5-twin-spoke design, both in two colour variants.
Driving assistance systems and MBUX: intelligent helpers in the background
With the help of numerous sensors, cameras and radar, the driving assistance systems observe the traffic and the surroundings of the new roadster. If necessary, the intelligent helpers can intervene at lightning speed. As in the current generations of the Mercedes C-Class and S-Class, the driver is supported by numerous new or enhanced systems - in everyday situations, for example, by assistance for speed adaptation, distance control, steering and lane changes. When danger threatens, the assistance systems are able to respond to impending collisions as the situation demands. The functioning of the systems is visualised by a new display concept in the instrument cluster.
The new assistance display in the instrument cluster shows comprehensibly and transparently how the driving assistance systems work in a full-screen view. The driver can see their car, lanes, lane markings and other road users such as cars, trucks and two-wheelers in an abstracted 3D way there. The system status and operation of the assistants are visualised in this depiction of the surroundings. The new animated assistance display is based on a 3-D scene generated in real time. This dynamic, high-quality representation makes the operation of the driving assistance systems transparent as a tangible augmented reality experience.
Numerous connectivity services available
The MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system enables extensive intuitive operating options and many digital services from Mercedes me connect. Its strengths include the intuitive operating concept via touchscreen or touch control buttons on the steering wheel, smartphone integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, hands-free system via Bluetooth connection, and digital radio (DAB and DAB+). In conjunction with MBUX, customers already have access to connectivity services such as Live Traffic Information. With Mercedes me connect, however, the new SL becomes even more intelligent overall: Additional functions can be used before and after the journey or while on the road. All that is required is to link the roadster to a Mercedes me account in the Mercedes me portal and accept the terms of use. Thanks to navigation with Live Traffic Information and Car-to-X communication, the customer drives with real-time traffic data. This way, traffic jams can be avoided efficiently and valuable time can be saved. Car-to-X communication enables connected vehicles to exchange information about traffic events.
[1] Technical data on power, torque, mileage, fuel consumption and emissions in this publication are provisional and have been determined internally in accordance with the applicable certification method. Confirmed TÜV figures, EC type approval and certificate of conformity with official figures are not yet available. Differences between the stated figures and the official figures are possible.
The descriptions and information in this press kit apply to the international model range of Mercedes-Benz. Details may vary from country to country. Further information about the vehicles offered, including the WLTP figures, can be found for each country at https://www.mercedes-benz.com
2020 S560 Sedan, 2019 SL450, 2019 E450 Luxury Trim Wagon, '24 BMW I7 on order...
This video rollout reminds me of the spectacular one they did for the 2021 W223 S Class. Very lavishly produced, looked great. Unfortunately, several of the more interesting options that were hyped in that video never made it into even one 2021 W223 and we are still waiting to see if they make it into the 2022 models. Furthermore, some features that one would think are fairly mundane in a new flagship model, such as massage seats and ambient lighting have been scrubbed from many 2021 models and may not be included in 2022’s. Of course, all of this is being blamed on the “chip shortage” and the CCP Virus. When those issues will ever come to an end is anybody’s guess.
As for pricing, the first new SL’s that make their way to Southern California will most likely carry massive “market adjustment” markups. I wouldn’t be surprised to see $25K to $100K over window on the first ones.
I think the car looks great as expected Great improvement over the outgoing model as a car apart from some details.
A couple things that surprised me...
1. The car is really large for a convertible. Almost 3 inches longer than the last SL almost 6" longer than the AMG GT? Starts feeling like an S-Cab size. Still want to confirm this but I think it looks well proportioned like due to being wider as well and showing 21" wheels
2. The car is not that quick. Am disappointed a bit by the performance numbers. The AWD SL63 seems just a touch quicker to 60 than the RWD GTC and will be slower at speed (60-130). This normally should be a 3 second car
3. Weight. I can't believe the specs are true. The SL63 shows to weigh 4343 lbs. on the German specs. That is almost 700 lbs more than our GTC! If true, I can only imagine the ePerformance version to add another 300 lbs for the rear battery and e-motor.
Haven't watched the videos yet but hope to get some clarification on this...
This is going to be yet another Mercedes model that sits around in showrooms as a difficult seller after the honeymoon period ends. Talk to dealers who had AMG GT 2-doors and 4-doors lying around forever.
I believe this new SL will lose sales to the Porsche 911 for all the same reasons the BMW 8 has failed: high price and limited performance as a result of the hefty curb weight.
As an owner of a 2017 AMG SL63, I think it’s downright ridiculous to listen to journalists speak about the R231 car like it wasn’t a good car or was some sort of mistake car. They speak about it like it wasn’t relevant or that it is a bad car. The outgoing SL63 is one of the best sport cars ever made, period. It successfully satisfies huge performance metrics and it does so in a way that provides comfort, smoothness, and luxury. It’s an absolute animal when necessary either in a straight line or in canyons. I’ve taken the thing in the canyons of North Carolina and Tennessee and it is an absolute conqueror of all canyon roads. Want to cruise in a straight line at 90+mph or even at 140mph with the top down? Not even a hair on your head will be flustered. Last night I cruised night back and forth from Miami to Northern Palm Beach County at high speeds and reaffirmed for the 10,000th time why I love this car so much and why I grabbed the keys to that one instead of those to my 911 convertible. (I have a 991.2 7spd Carrera S rwd).
I guess the best suspension in the world - ABC - is being retired because the masses neither appreciate it or understand what it is. That’s a real cow-tow. The active roll stabilization system is hardly a substitute. Another cow-tow to BMW. The system adds weight and doesn’t really work. It works after body roll has begun. ABC stops body roll from ever occurring. It’s the thing that makes an SL an SL.
All-wheel drive? Another surrender to the fashion of the day. Thanks, Mercedes. I guess you are acknowledging in yet another way that BMW is worthy of being copied. All-wheel drive should not exist on an SL. This isn’t a car that needs to post acceleration numbers comparable to those of a 911 turbo.
This new generation SL should have been the same size (182 inches), with more storage space, the engine further rearward for a true mid-engine (front mid-engine) configuration, lighter (maybe 3900 pounds), and better looking. With attributes like those, it could offer performance comparable to that of a 911. This new SL will be a fine performing heavy car, but it won’t be outstanding. There will be asterisks all over the place excusing its weight with phrases like, “For it’s size and weight, the new SL impresses.”
Thanks! It handles better than an Audi A6 sedan which weighs the same! Now that I think of it, what other 2-door coupe or convertible at 185 inches has ever weighed some 4400 pounds? (I think the final US-spec curb weight of the SL63/S will exceed 4500 pounds).
Just a quick Internet search shows that a 2012 A207 E-class convertible in E550 form was 184.96 inches with a curb weight 4,048 pounds! We can’t improve on that in an AMG-designed SL?
(Source:
https://media.mbusa.com/releases/release-ec8e363a5150425694db39004e14f9f7-2012-mercedes-benz-e-class-cabriolet-technical-data
)
Instead, we have a blah-looking convertible Mercedes without any special exterior attributes — the lights front and rear are just “fine” — pumped up by the AMG branding; and it’s essentially a scaled-down E-class convertible dressed up to fool people into thinking it’s S-class quality. Anyone who has stepped foot in an AMG GT 2-door or 4-door knows it is not S-class.
I’m hugely disappointed. This isn’t an SL - it’s an AMG concoction designed to fit in with the popular culture of the day.
Mercedes: if you’re listening, please stop transforming the brand into a cosmopolitan brand intended to suit popular opinion and high-volume sales. Please go back to innovating, and please dispense with tendencies to consider what other brands are doing and then copying their philosophies.
Look forward to official pricing but would be very surprised to see something at $120k... $165k is the base GTC roadster price. So that sounds about right.
2020 S560 Sedan, 2019 SL450, 2019 E450 Luxury Trim Wagon, '24 BMW I7 on order...
Originally Posted by 348SStb
.............I guess the best suspension in the world - ABC - is being retired because the masses neither appreciate it or understand what it is. That’s a real cow-tow. The active roll stabilization system is hardly a substitute. Another cow-tow to BMW. The system adds weight and doesn’t really work. It works after body roll has begun. ABC stops body roll from ever occurring. It’s the thing that makes an SL an SL.................
Well, it makes SOME SL's an SL. Non-AMG R231's in the USA, with ABC, are exceedingly rare. Of course, all R231 SL63's & 65's came with it, but for the vast majority of 2013 to 2020 SL's that were sold in the USA, only a relative handful have this truly magnificent, game changing option. The fact that MB dropped it from being standard equipment on the non-AMG R231's, in my opinion, is one of "THE" reasons that SL sales fell off a cliff. I know that my opinion is in the minority here, as folks like to defend what they own, but an R231 with ABC is a car that I just love to drive, while one without ABC, is not a car I would ever own again. It really is that big of a deal.
The fact that MB dropped it from being standard equipment on the non-AMG R231's, in my opinion, is one of "THE" reasons that SL sales fell off a cliff.
I highly doubt that, and I also doubt most SL owners could even tell you what the ABC suspension even is.
2020 S560 Sedan, 2019 SL450, 2019 E450 Luxury Trim Wagon, '24 BMW I7 on order...
Originally Posted by Wolfman
...........The car is really large for a convertible. Almost 3 inches longer than the last SL almost 6" longer than the AMG GT? Starts feeling like an S-Cab size............
I agree. It really reminds me of the S Cabriolet--a car that I really tried to like, but it just disappointed me with the way it drove and the fact that the rear seats were virtually useless for adults.
I think the car looks great as expected Great improvement over the outgoing model as a car apart from some details.
A couple things that surprised me...
1. The car is really large for a convertible. Almost 3 inches longer than the last SL almost 6" longer than the AMG GT? Starts feeling like an S-Cab size. Still want to confirm this but I think it looks well proportioned like due to being wider as well and showing 21" wheels
2. The car is not that quick. Am disappointed a bit by the performance numbers. The AWD SL63 seems just a touch quicker to 60 than the RWD GTC and will be slower at speed (60-130). This normally should be a 3 second car
3. Weight. I can't believe the specs are true.
1. This car is still 15 inches shorter than a S-class cabriolet and 5 inches shorter than a E-class cabriolet.
2. I think the performance is spot on. This model was never supposed to be the highlight from a performance standpoint, that’s the SL63e with the P1 hybrid system. That won’t be unveiled until later in 2022. And yeah, it’ll be even more heavy.
Originally Posted by Streamliner
I agree. It really reminds me of the S Cabriolet--a car that I really tried to like, but it just disappointed me with the way it drove and the fact that the rear seats were virtually useless for adults.
As said above, this car is still 15 inches shorter than a S-class cabriolet and 5 inches shorter than a E-class cabriolet. It’s about the same size as a C-class can but wider.
2020 S560 Sedan, 2019 SL450, 2019 E450 Luxury Trim Wagon, '24 BMW I7 on order...
Originally Posted by js_cls
I highly doubt that, and I also doubt most SL owners could even tell you what the ABC suspension even is.
After owning my 2004 SL500 for 12 years, I sold it and bought a CPO 2013 SL550 without ABC. I didn't pay enough attention during the test drive and figured the crummy ride was due to the run flat tires. After replacing the tires with non-RFT, the ride was much improved, but still unacceptable to me, compared to the great ride I had with my R230. So, I sold the 2013 and ordered a new 2019 SL450 with ABC. DAY AND NIGHT BETTER! I can only imagine other R230 owners coming into the dealerships to trade their old SL in on a new one and being very disappointed in the ride quality, especially if the new car was riding on 20's. Then, when they turned on the sound system,
they decided to go drive a new 911 Cabriolet and never came back to the SL. Just my opinion, but I do agree that probably over 95% of SL owners know absolutely nothing about ABC.
1. This car is still 15 inches shorter than a S-class cabriolet and 5 inches shorter than a E-class cabriolet.
2. I think the performance is spot on. This model was never supposed to be the highlight from a performance standpoint, that’s the SL63e with the P1 hybrid system. That won’t be unveiled until later in 2022. And yeah, it’ll be even more heavy.
As said above, this car is still 15 inches shorter than a S-class cabriolet and 5 inches shorter than a E-class cabriolet. It’s about the same size as a C-class can but wider.
There is no way a car at 185 inches — named “Sport Light” and developed by a performance manufacturer — should weigh 4400 pounds.
Look forward to official pricing but would be very surprised to see something at $120k... $165k is the base GTC roadster price. So that sounds about right.
These will probably be in short supply. First few might squeak through at MSRP, wont be surprised to see ADM on these like all the other hot new vehicles. That being said, pricing can end up anywhere in todays crazy world.
I feel like this car is a jack of all trades, master of none. The problem is that they tried to replace the S cabriolet and the SL with one car, and ended up with something that doesn't fulfill either role well. The styling is better than the R231, but I don't like the addition of the rear seats. The rear seats are too small to be useful for adults or children (can't fit a child seat or high back booster for young kids, and older kids and adults just won't fit either). However, the rear seats make the car longer and heavier, and throw off the traditional long good short body proportions of the SL. All this hoopla about weight saving with a soft top, but this is a heavy pig, quite a bit heavier than the R230 and R231 which were already obese. Due to the heavy weight, performance is also humdrum compared to the Porsche 911 and C8 Corvette, and the SL is neither more practical nor substantially more luxurious than either of those.
I'm much more interested in seeing what the next AMG GT would be like. If they start with this platform, but get rid of the rear seats, lengthen the hood and move the engine back, make it a more rigid and lightweight coupe, it could be a more compelling vehicle.
Looks great. Hope MBAG succeeds with the launch and doesn’t drop the ball as was the case with V/X167. With W223 it’s too early to tell if the launch was successful.
As an owner of a 2017 AMG SL63, I think it’s downright ridiculous to listen to journalists speak about the R231 car like it wasn’t a good car or was some sort of mistake car. They speak about it like it wasn’t relevant or that it is a bad car. The outgoing SL63 is one of the best sport cars ever made, period.
They weren't wrong, and the R231 and some of its predecessors are far from proper sports cars, even in AMG guise.
Originally Posted by 348SStb
I guess the best suspension in the world - ABC - is being retired because the masses neither appreciate it or understand what it is. That’s a real cow-tow. The active roll stabilization system is hardly a substitute. Another cow-tow to BMW. The system adds weight and doesn’t really work. It works after body roll has begun. ABC stops body roll from ever occurring. It’s the thing that makes an SL an SL.
Why don't you wait instead of pre-maturely judging when the new SL is also debuting the all new AMG Ride Control suspension design and setup which features similar hydraulic anti-roll stabilizing to the outgoing ABC technology.
Originally Posted by 348SStb
All-wheel drive? Another surrender to the fashion of the day. Thanks, Mercedes. I guess you are acknowledging in yet another way that BMW is worthy of being copied. All-wheel drive should not exist on an SL. This isn’t a car that needs to post acceleration numbers comparable to those of a 911 turbo.
They didn't copy BMW as they were the first to debut the Selectable AWD function on the E63S in 2016, and debuted later on BMW products such as the M5 and M8
Its the typical new car cycle, owners of previous generation cars will complain, reviews of the new car will be positive, and eventually everyone will get over it.
They weren't wrong, and the R231 and some of its predecessors are far from proper sports cars, even in AMG guise.
Why don't you wait instead of pre-maturely judging when the new SL is also debuting the all new AMG Ride Control suspension design and setup which features similar hydraulic anti-roll stabilizing to the outgoing ABC technology.
They didn't copy BMW as they were the first to debut the Selectable AWD function on the E63S in 2016, and debuted later on BMW products such as the M5 and M8
Its the typical new car cycle, owners of previous generation cars will complain, reviews of the new car will be positive, and eventually everyone will get over it.
Sorry but I think you’re wrong on every point you’ve made.
(1) My 2017 SL63 is a sports car. I have owned every brand of sports car and just about every one of them including McLaren 650S, Boxster Spyder, 911, Ferraris of all kinds, etc. I’ve been blessed. The SL63 can do absolutely everything the 911 can do on canyon roads, and on highways it can do more. On the track? Maybe not. It’s a sports car: it’s fast, and it handles with the best of them. I don’t care that it weighs 4k pounds — ABC, ESP, and rear-wheel brake vectoring take care of most of that. The car is damn nimble.
(2) The AMG Active Ride Control system isn’t new. Mercedes has already implemented the system on lesser AMG cars like the GLE. It’s a copy of BMW’s debut of Active Roll Stabilization some ten years ago. I happen to have the system on my M850i. It isn’t in the same league as ABC. The system is just about useless in hard cornering conditions. There’s a reason BMW doesn't even install it on its M cars.
(3) BMW’s decision to use all-wheel drive on its 8 series is precisely the reason why Mercedes has chosen to use 4Matic on the new SL. Sure, I’m conjecturing a bit, but there’s good reason to believe it. Mercedes is following the trends. Indeed, Mercedes had 4Matic available back in 2010 when it began development of the new SL, but back then (like now), people who knew the definition of a true sports car knew that weight is the enemy and rear wheel drive is essential.
Looks good and I think the addition of 4matic makes it more usable & more importantly - less intimidating for the average buyer. I suspect this implies the next generation GT will be 4matic also - which is a shame cause I think that means no more RWD cars from Mercedes will happen.
My only concern is with the center console screen. If Im going with a car with a center console iPad - Im not gonna be the beta tester and it better be perfect.
Sorry but I think you’re wrong on every point you’ve made.
(1) My 2017 SL63 is a sports car. I have owned every brand of sports car and just about every one of them including McLaren 650S, Boxster Spyder, 911, Ferraris of all kinds, etc. I’ve been blessed. The SL63 can do absolutely everything the 911 can do on canyon roads, and on highways it can do more. On the track? Maybe not. It’s a sports car: it’s fast, and it handles with the best of them. I don’t care that it weighs 4k pounds — ABC, ESP, and rear-wheel brake vectoring take care of most of that. The car is damn nimble.
(2) The AMG Active Ride Control system isn’t new. Mercedes has already implemented the system on lesser AMG cars like the GLE. It’s a copy of BMW’s debut of Active Roll Stabilization some ten years ago. I happen to have the system on my M850i. It isn’t in the same league as ABC. The system is just about useless in hard cornering conditions. There’s a reason BMW doesn't even install it on its M cars.
(3) BMW’s decision to use all-wheel drive on its 8 series is precisely the reason why Mercedes has chosen to use 4Matic on the new SL. Sure, I’m conjecturing a bit, but there’s good reason to believe it. Mercedes is following the trends. Indeed, Mercedes had 4Matic available back in 2010 when it began development of the new SL, but back then (like now), people who knew the definition of a true sports car knew that weight is the enemy and rear wheel drive is essential.
The way BMW and Mercedes tune a chassis and suspension are incredibly different, just because the active roll is not that good on your BMW does not mean its the same on the SL. That among with the numerous different suspension developments as well as AMG specific chassis tuning made to the SL will undoubtedly produce a vehicle with great handling characteristics, especially since AMG was more focused on making the SL sportier than before.
The rumors of AWD in the SL were swirling for a while, one article even as far back as 2014 mentioned it, and it was reiterated again at the end of 2017, there's no way to confirm that the BMW was responsible, especially when AMG already had the variable AWD system ready to use in a variety of vehicles. While 4Matic was available in 2010, it is no where near as advanced as the current technologies that were developed from AMG.
They weren't wrong, and the R231 and some of its predecessors are far from proper sports cars, even in AMG guise.
Why don't you wait instead of pre-maturely judging when the new SL is also debuting the all new AMG Ride Control suspension design and setup which features similar hydraulic anti-roll stabilizing to the outgoing ABC technology.
They didn't copy BMW as they were the first to debut the Selectable AWD function on the E63S in 2016, and debuted later on BMW products such as the M5 and M8
Its the typical new car cycle, owners of previous generation cars will complain, reviews of the new car will be positive, and eventually everyone will get over it.
Mercedes was indeed the first with the 4Matic+ and it works great. Had it in our W213 E63s.
The reality is that most MB customers want AWD, including AMG customers. Not due to weather but because it's the easiest way to get power down on the road. Given that most performance cars offer up power well above 500hp, rear wheel drive cars are just difficult to manage, even at speed.
10-28-2021, 10:04 AM
